Today, October 11, marks the International Day of the Girl-Child—a day that fills me with immense pride and joy as we spotlight the power, potential, and promise of girls everywhere. I am thrilled to join this global celebration of our girls and their vision for the future.

At the Wellbeing Foundation Africa, we have long championed the rights of girls, advocating for their access to education, healthcare, and opportunities that allow them to flourish and shape a future where no one is left behind. This year’s theme, “Girls’ Vision for the Future,” resonates deeply with our work, as we recognize that girls hold the key to a brighter, more equitable world.

It was an honor to partner with She Forum Africa, alongside incredible organizations like the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, the Embassy of Finland, Pathfinder International, Helpline Social Support Initiative, and YouthSpace Africa, in hosting the Adolescents’ Town Hall & Mentorship Day. Together, we engaged with over 500 adolescents across Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT), inspiring and empowering them with the tools they need to envision and shape a future filled with possibility.

I would like to personally thank the She Forum Africa Diaspora Hub, represented by Ms. Busie Matsiko-Andan, for their unwavering commitment to this cause. This partnership, rooted in the spirit of UN SDG 17—Partnerships for the Goals—showcases the power of collaboration in transforming the lives of girls and ensuring that they have the opportunity to thrive.

The message is clear: GIRLS MATTER. And we must continue to provide them with the resources, opportunities, and support to succeed, because when girls are empowered, they shape not just their own futures, but the future of our communities and the world.

As we commemorate IDG 2024, let us all renew our commitment to uplifting girls, ensuring that their voices are heard and their visions for the future are realized. I wish all the girls, boys, families, and communities a wonderful International Day of the Girl-Child. Together, we can create a future where every girl has the opportunity to thrive.