By Princess Simon (Bureau Chief North Central, in Minna)
Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Niger state chapter has made a case for more attention on girl child education as the near panacea for the much sort-after speedy change.
State CAN Chairman, Most Revd Dr. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, made the suggestion in his presentation at the conference of Traditional and Religious Leaders on the Significance of Girls Education in the North-Central geo political zone of the country, which took place in Minna, the state capital.
Yohanna, who is the Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, said girl child education can be argued to be, “a beacon of hope that illuminates the path towards a more equitable and prosperous future for all”.
The clergy pointed out that, “Through education barriers are broken-down, harmful stereotypes are challenged and as well a world where every girl is valued is built, respected and given the chance to fulfill her potentials uninterrupted ”.
He therefore admonished Nigerians to, 'continue to champion girls education as a cornerstone of progress and a cornerstone of a brighter tomorrow'.
As traditional and religious leaders, Bishop Yohanna said he and his colleagues and traditional institution as stakeholders have critical roles to play in influencing decisions regarding the girl child.
Religious and traditional institutions according to him, 'hold the power to challenge harmful stereotypes and as well support policies that promote gender equality'.
Also speaking, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa'ad Abubakar, stressed the need for the Girl Child to be given equal opportunity with her male counterpart to pursue her education to any levels unhindered or interrupted by marriage and religious distractions.
The Monarch who commended the developmental strides of the Governor Mohammed Umar Bago led administration, prayed that God will give him the grace to complete all the projects he started before end of his tenure. NNL.
