By Huldah Shado
In a symbolic gesture celebrating girl-child education and empowerment, Vice President Kashim Shettima on Monday handed over his office for one day to 14-year-old Joy Ogah, a passionate advocate for girls’ rights.
The ceremony, held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, underscored the Tinubu administration’s commitment to education, gender equality, and youth inclusion in governance.
During her brief but inspiring tenure as Vice President for a Day, Ogah delivered a stirring message calling for inclusive education, protection of girls’ rights, and improved access to sanitation, nutrition, and safety in schools.
“When girls are protected, peace becomes possible,” she declared to loud applause.
“I may be Vice President for a day, but the struggles I represent cannot end in a day, they must continue in our policies, classrooms, and budgets,” she added.
Vice President Shettima commended Ogah’s courage and reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to expanding educational opportunities for girls.
He also praised First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu as a strong advocate for women’s empowerment and education, recalling her consistent efforts in the Senate to promote gender equality.
The event was part of a courtesy visit by PLAN International Nigeria, led by its Country Director, Helen Mfonobong Idiong.
The organization has supported over 11 million Nigerian children through interventions in education, health, and entrepreneurship.
Ogah’s one-day leadership experience, participants noted, symbolizes hope for a future where every Nigerian girl can dream, lead, and make a difference.
