The Niger State

4023

Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, in collaboration with the Salma Attah Foundation for Women and Girls Support (SAFWGS), has concluded a two-day leadership summit for 100 schoolgirls to promote girls’ rights, leadership development and participation in decision-making.

The summit, which brought together participants from 20 schools, was held under the theme, “From Head Girl to Change Maker: Girls in Leadership, Building the Future We Want.”

The event was organised in commemoration of the 2026 International Day of the Girl, with a focus on ending child marriage and investing in girls’ rights.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Hadiza Shiru, who represented the Commissioner, Hajiya Hadiza Idris Kuta, emphasised the importance of investing in girls’ education and preparing them for leadership responsibilities.

She encouraged the participants to demonstrate discipline, integrity, confidence and responsibility in their schools and communities, noting that leadership involves service and the ability to make a positive difference.

Hajiya Shiru also urged the girls to maximise the opportunities provided by the summit to develop their potential and contribute meaningfully to society.

In her keynote address, the founder of Farid Centre, Hajiya Amina Jummai Gimba, stressed the need to equip girls with education, mentorship and opportunities to prepare them for future leadership roles.

She encouraged the participants to believe in themselves, express their views confidently and remain committed to their aspirations despite challenges.

Ms Gimba also called on parents, teachers and other stakeholders to support girls in developing their talents and acquiring the skills needed to become responsible leaders.

The founder of SAFWGS, Amrah Aliyu, said the summit was designed to move girls beyond holding leadership positions in their schools to becoming change-makers who could identify challenges and develop practical solutions.

She said the initiative focused on building participants’ confidence, communication, critical-thinking and decision-making skills while providing opportunities for them to learn from experienced women leaders.

Ms Aliyu also highlighted the importance of mentorship and sustained engagement in ensuring that lessons from the summit translated into meaningful action in schools and communities.

In her closing remarks, the Director of Women Affairs, Mrs Mariya Ndako, reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to investing in girls’ rights, education and leadership development as part of efforts to build inclusive and progressive communities.

The summit featured practical sessions on self-awareness, emotional intelligence, public speaking, problem-solving and values-based leadership.

Participants also engaged in a School Change Challenge, through which they were encouraged to identify problems affecting their schools and develop practical solutions.

The initiative sought to strengthen girls’ confidence and leadership capacity while promoting their participation in decisions affecting their education, welfare and future.