By Stella Odueme
The Federal Government has signed a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Plan International to drive forward the crucial mission of promoting gender equality, protecting the rights of the girl child, and implementing targeted initiatives for positive change.
The Minister of State, Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, during the signing ceremony in his office at Abuja
recalled that when he visited the office of Plan International with his team a couple of months ago, it was certain they both shared similar objectives and visions for the growth and development of Nigerian Youth.
A statement by the Director of Information & Public Relations, Mrs Omolara Esan on Thursday night said that the Minister explained that the collaboration with Plan International would focus on promoting gender equality, protecting the girl child, and also promoting the development, well-being, and health of the youth, considering the limitations they face.
“As we sign the agreement to work together more collaboratively starting today, our primary mission remains the same, to empower the Nigerian youth to become self-reliant, socially responsible, and active contributors to the development of our country.
“We will work with Plan International to enhance the protection and promotion of girl rights. Coincidentally, tomorrow is the International Day of the Girl Child, and to celebrate the occasion, I will be vacating my seat for the winner of this year’s IDG Essay Competition to serve as a Minister for the day, ” he stressed.
He stated that the synergy signifies his commitment and that of the Ministry to support the development of leadership capacity for the girl child and to create opportunities for them to participate in the decision-making process.
The Minister mentioned that the signed MoU with Plan International will focus on the following key areas namely:Youth empowerment and leadership development, Education and skill development, Health and well-being, including sexual and reproductive health, Protection from violence, exploitation and abuse, and Promoting gender equality and Inclusion.
Earlier, the Country Director, Plan International, Mr. Charles Usie stated that the platform is one of the global organization’s set up 85 years ago to seek the rights of girl child and equality for young people across 75 countries.
He further emphasized that the signing of the MoU should not be viewed as a mere formality, but rather as a sincere commitment to the Government. He stressed that the MoU signifies a significant opportunity that should not be taken for granted, adding that it will unlock various resources and opportunities for the organization.
