The presidential candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP), Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, respectively have extended congratulatory messages to Nigerian girl children in commemoration of the International Day of Girl Child.
Newsonline reports that two of the three major contenders of the 2023 election, Atik and Peter, also pledged their commitment to the education of the girl child if elected.
The presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, lamented that about 60% of out-of-school children are girls.
Peter Obi said education of the girl child is imperative and remains critical to transforming the nation and reducing gender equality.
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In a statement on Tuesday, the former governor of Anambra State said, “Our unrelenting struggle for a new Nigeria is, among other reasons, the desire to build a better nation where the girl child will be protected free and safe to live and thrive.”
He stated, “Educating the girl child is imperative and remains critical to transforming our nation and reducing gender inequality. Regrettably females school enrollment has remained poor in many parts of the country, with over 60% of the out-of-school children in Nigeria being females.”
“We must, therefore, ensure that the girl child, no matter where she lives has access to affordable and qualitative education. I remain ever committed to building a more secured and productive Nigeria, in which the girl child will freely explore and be empowered to live her life to the fullest, while contributing positively to the growth and development of the nation. Happy International Day of the Girl Child!” Peter Obi promised.
The former vice president of Nigeria and the PDP presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, also said the girl child is a great asset for the future.
Atiku stated that if elected, he would provide education and a level playing field for the development of all children, especially the girl child.
He said, “On International Day of the Girl Child, we must all come together to protect and nurture one of Nigeria’s greatest assets—our girl child. My plan for safety, education, and a level playing field will be critical in protecting their rights and future. It is time we all unite for this cause. As One, we can get it done.”
