It was an inspiring and symbolic moment at the State House in Abuja on Monday as 16-year-old Joy Ogah stepped into the role of Nigeria’s Vice President for a day — an initiative aimed at promoting girls’ education and leadership.
The teenager took over from Vice President Kashim Shettima during a courtesy visit by Plan International, a global development organization that advocates for girls’ rights and education.
Seated in the Vice President’s chair, Joy called on the government to invest more in safe and inclusive schools while enforcing laws that protect girls from abuse and discrimination. She expressed concern that about 10.5 million Nigerian children remain out of school, most of them girls, and urged authorities to provide free sanitary products and improve school sanitation facilities.
Vice President Shettima, who graciously offered her his seat, reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to empowering girls through education. He noted that the government remains gender-sensitive and inclusive, citing First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu as an example of how educated and empowered girls can rise to national leadership.
The event was part of activities organized by Plan International to mark the International Day of the Girl Child, celebrated globally to spotlight the challenges and opportunities for girls.
