Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim girl-child advocacy praised at APC event as minister calls for protection, mentorship, and leadership for Nigerian girls

Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim girl-child advocacy took centre stage as the Minister of Women Affairs called for collective action to protect girls from harm and abuse, urging young Nigerians to promote mentorship and inclusive leadership.

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Speaking at an event organised by the All Progressives Congress (APC) Youth Wing to mark the 2025 International Day of the Girl-Child in Abuja, Dr Sulaiman-Ibrahim stressed the importance of safeguarding the dreams and futures of young girls across Nigeria.

“Every girl deserves the chance to dream, grow, and lead,” she said. “We must all take responsibility to ensure a safe and supportive environment for the Nigerian girl-child to thrive.”

She highlighted the urgent need for a multi-sectoral approach to tackle gender-based violence and rape, warning that silence or inaction only worsens the issue.

The minister urged Nigerian youth to become change agents, promoting mentorship and progressive leadership as tools to combat entrenched social and cultural barriers.

Dr Sulaiman-Ibrahim also praised the APC Youth Wing for its commitment to inclusion and development within the party, commending its efforts to engage young women in politics and civic leadership.

“Your efforts show that political participation must be inclusive — and the empowerment of girls is central to national progress,” she noted.

APC National Youth Leader, Dr Dayo Israel, lauded Sulaiman-Ibrahim’s leadership, saying her work embodies the mission to empower Nigeria’s next generation.

“Empowering the girl-child is empowering the next generation,” he stated.

A highlight of the event was the unveiling of the Progressive Young Ladies Network (PYLN) — a youth-led initiative focused on mentorship, leadership training, and political participation for young women.

The celebration featured an interactive session, fireside chats, and presentations of souvenirs, with participants inspired by the minister’s reflections on her leadership journey.

The event reaffirmed the APC Youth Wing’s commitment to gender inclusion and social development, echoing a broader national push to address inequality and expand opportunities for girls and women.

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The minister concluded by reiterating that protecting and investing in the girl-child is not charity, but a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future.

Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim girl-child advocacy praised

Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim girl-child advocacy praised