Lagos Mainland LGEA Celebrates International Girls and Mother’s Day: Advocating for Empowerment, Wise Parenting

Mainland Local Government Education Authority, Social Mobilisation section in conjunction with Mothers Association has organised a programme themed Barriers Preventing Children Especially Girls from Enjoying Rights to Free Quality Education to celebrate International Girls and Mother’s Day.

The Chairman of the association,Hon. Tajudeen Tijani, spearheaded the momentous celebration by emphasizing the significance of nurturing the girl child and supporting mothers within the Lagos Mainland community.

This event, which is the maiden edition is marked by a commitment to uplift and empower young girls and mothers, and resonated deeply with attendees, like mothers, retired educators and schoolchildren.

In his address,Hon. Tijani underscored the collective responsibility of society to provide opportunities for every child’s development, emphasizing the government’s dedication to removing children from the streets and ensuring their education and well-being. He highlighted the crucial role of mothers in this endeavour, calling for partnerships to safeguard children’s futures.

Guest speaker Mrs. Toyosi Peter, representing Mrs. Onyekachi Abimbola Rebecca of the Woman Thou Art Favoured Organisation, delivered an impassioned discourse on cultivating godly homes and fulfilling maternal duties. Stressing the importance of nurturing children in a wholesome environment, she urged parents to recognize the unique purpose of each child and invest wisely in their upbringing.

The second guest speaker, Alice Amolo, The program Manager of Varing Hearts Organisation commended the effort of the Lagos state and mainland Lgea.

Speaking on barriers preventing the girl child from the right to face quality education, she emphasised that poverty and negative social and cultural norms are one the hindrances.

She mentioned that girl child education develops the totality of the girl child and this must be the focus of every state.

Echoing these sentiments, retired educator Alhaja Chief Mrs Shabi Sharpman advocated against corporal punishment, citing its detrimental effects on children’s physical and psychological well-being. Emphasizing the existence of laws both within and outside of schools against such practices, she urged parents and teachers to seek alternative disciplinary methods.

Chief (Mrs.) Ogunnoiki Folake Simiat, also known as Alhaja Gold, Coordinator of the Mothers Association, struck a balance by acknowledging the role of discipline in child-rearing while advocating for its application with wisdom and restraint. She cautioned against excessive force, advising parents to avoid causing harm to sensitive areas of the body.

The event, organized by the Mothers Association, served as a platform for reflection and action, uniting stakeholders in a shared commitment to the welfare and empowerment of girls and mothers in the Lagos Mainland community. Other NGOs. present at the event,Mrs Oreoluwa Oduyoye.
Orelluwa Oduyoye Foundation,Hope ambassador
and Child care organisation and Victory Olumuyiwa foundation.

With insightful discussions and calls to action, attendees departed with a renewed sense of purpose and determination to uphold the rights and dignity of every child and mother.

Photo Speaks