By Mohammed Bello Doka
In a remarkable move to bolster inclusive education and gender equity, President Bola Tinubu has embarked on spearheading the launch of the #WeAreEqual campaign in Nigeria. This groundbreaking initiative, sanctioned by the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), is set to revolutionize education, skill development, and gender parity across the continent.
President Tinubu, addressing a diverse audience at the campaign's inauguration ceremony, underscored the paramount importance of education as a fundamental driver of societal progress and individual empowerment. He lauded the unwavering commitment of African First Ladies, particularly singling out his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her pivotal role in advocating education as a potent catalyst for transformative change.
Amidst a backdrop of applauding dignitaries and enthusiastic supporters, President Tinubu articulated the urgent need to ensure equal access to education for all children, with a special emphasis on empowering girls. He reiterated his administration's steadfast commitment to guaranteeing that no Nigerian child is marginalized or excluded from the opportunity to receive a quality education.
In a poignant moment, President Tinubu praised the reintroduction of the Alternative High School for Girls, a visionary initiative aimed at providing a lifeline to young girls who have prematurely discontinued their education. Through this innovative program, these girls are afforded a second chance to pursue their dreams and aspirations, thereby reshaping their futures and contributing positively to society.
Drawing from his rich experience as the former governor of Lagos State, President Tinubu reflected on the myriad societal challenges impeding the progress of young girls, including teenage pregnancy, domestic violence, and human trafficking. With unwavering resolve, he called for concerted efforts to dismantle entrenched structural inequalities and create a nurturing environment conducive to the holistic development of women and girls.
President Tinubu outlined a comprehensive set of initiatives designed to level the playing field and empower all Nigerians, irrespective of gender or socioeconomic status. These include the full operationalization of the Student’s Loan (Access to Higher Education) Act, aimed at ensuring unhindered access to tertiary education for deserving young people. Additionally, the implementation of a non-repayable grant program for Nano businesses and skilled trades promises to provide vital economic opportunities for marginalized segments of society, including women and youth.
As the ceremony drew to a close, President Tinubu issued a passionate call to action, urging all stakeholders to unite in advancing the #WeAreEqual campaign. He emphasized the transformative potential of educating and empowering girls, envisioning a future where educated women serve as catalysts for positive change and propel African communities towards prosperity and progress.
In a symbolic gesture, President Tinubu ceremoniously launched the #WeAreEqual campaign in Nigeria, igniting a beacon of hope and opportunity for generations to come. As the audience erupted into resounding applause, it was evident that a new chapter in Nigeria's educational landscape had been written—one characterized by inclusivity, equality, and boundless promise for all.
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