The Society of Women Accountants of Nigeria (SWAN) has reiterated its dedication to advancing the education, leadership, and empowerment of the girl child as part of this year’s commemoration of the International Day of the Girl Child.
The annual event, marked globally on October 11, celebrates the potential of girls while drawing attention to the challenges they face.
The 2025 theme, “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls on the Frontlines of Crisis,” highlights the strength and leadership of girls who continue to thrive despite adversity.
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According to a statement by SWAN’s National Chairperson, Blessing Osakwe-Ogo, and reported by Punch Newspaper, the association views the empowerment of girls as “the foundation of nation-building and social transformation.”
“We do not take for granted forming the hand that rocks the cradle,” Osakwe-Ogo said. “Every day, the girl child faces crises in different areas of life, yet she continues to show courage, brilliance, and leadership potential despite the odds.”
She acknowledged that girls across the world are demonstrating excellence in academics, leadership, and innovation despite social and economic barriers, citing the strong performance of female candidates in ICAN examinations as an encouraging example.
Osakwe-Ogo called for more deliberate efforts from governments, educational institutions, and families to create safe environments and equal opportunities for girls. She emphasized the importance of psychosocial support, access to quality education, and mentorship, especially for girls in crisis-prone areas.
“Empowering girls helps them see themselves not as victims of circumstance but as leaders and problem-solvers driving positive change,” she said. She also urged young girls to take pride in their identity, know their rights, and stay informed about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Reaffirming SWAN’s ongoing initiatives, Osakwe-Ogo noted that the organization conducts mentorship programs, educational outreach, financial literacy training, and leadership workshops to build girls’ confidence and resilience.
“To every girl child out there, we say your voice matters too,” she added, quoting the late American singer Whitney Houston: “Learning to love yourself is the greatest love of all.”
She concluded that investing in the empowerment of girls remains a strategic step toward securing the future of communities and nations.
