Chinazaekpere Chinwendu, Reporter
Abia State |October 11, 2025 —
Former Abia State governorship candidate and founder of the OAU foundation, Hon Onyekwere Akym Uche (OAU), has joined millions around the world to mark the International Day of the Girl Child, urging government at all levels, development partners, and community leaders to make greater investments in the education, protection, and empowerment of the girl child.
Speaking to newsmen on Saturday, OAU described the girl child as “the cornerstone of national progress whose potential must never be ignored or underutilized.”
He emphasized that every society that prioritizes the education and well-being of its girls is laying a solid foundation for sustainable development, innovation, and equality.
“No nation can rise above the quality of its education and the inclusion of its women,” OAU stated. “When we educate a girl, we empower a generation. The girl child represents promise, creativity, and strength. Our duty is to protect her dreams and give her the tools to achieve them.”
OAU called for targeted policy reforms and budgetary commitments to eliminate barriers that hinder girls from accessing education, including poverty, early marriage, gender-based violence, and cultural stereotypes.
He stressed that empowering the girl child is not an act of charity but a strategic investment that directly impacts economic growth and social stability.
“Empowerment is not a slogan; it requires real action,” he said. “Government must allocate resources to ensure that girls in rural and urban areas alike can access free, quality education, digital literacy programs, and mentorship. Private sector actors must also play their part by supporting initiatives that build confidence and leadership among young women.”
OAU also highlighted the importance of creating safe spaces for girls at home, in schools, and online, where they can express themselves freely without fear of discrimination or exploitation.
“The world is changing, and so must our approach to raising girls,” he noted.
“Let us build an environment where every girl feels seen, heard, and valued, where her ideas matter and her potential is nurtured.”
He commended organizations, teachers, parents, and social workers who continue to advocate for gender equity and protect the rights of young girls.
“As we celebrate this year’s International Day of the Girl Child, we must renew our resolve to give every girl a fair chance to dream, learn, and lead,” OAU added. “Investing in her future is investing in humanity’s future.”
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