2025 GIRL CHILD DAY; Maden Healthcare Foundation Calls For Empowerment of Girls in Crisis. ..... Says It's A Path Towards a Brighter Future

"Empowering girls in crisis is not only a moral imperative but also a smart investment for societies. By supporting girls, we can build a more just, inclusive, and prosperous world. Let's work together to ensure every girl has the opportunity to thrive and lead." Dr. Ese Agbatutu 

The International Day of the Girl Child, observed annually on October 11, serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges girls face worldwide. The 2025 theme, "The Girl I Am, the Change I Lead: Girls on the Frontlines of Crisis," underscores the resilience and determination of girls confronting adversity. As we commemorate this day, it's essential to acknowledge the obstacles girls encounter and the transformative impact of empowering them.

According to Dr. Ese O. Agbatutu, the Founder of the Maden Healthcare Foundation MHF, "Girls in crisis situations face numerous hurdles, including poverty, displacement, and gender-based violence. These challenges not only threaten their well-being but also limit their potential. In Nigeria, for instance, 27% of girls experience female genital mutilation, while abductions and trafficking surge in conflict zones ¹. Moreover, poverty forces many girls into hawking or domestic work, exacerbating malnutrition and affecting 5.4 million children in 2025."

Dr. Agbatutu disclosed that, "despite these challenges, girls demonstrate remarkable strength and leadership." She stated.

"They are not just victims of crisis; they are agents of change. Investing in their education, health, and well-being is crucial to helping them reach their full potential. By providing access to quality education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, girls can rise as changemakers and innovators.

"Empowering girls aligns with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). The International Day of the Girl Child 2025 serves as a reminder that empowering girls is key to building a more just and inclusive world."

She noted that, "To support girls in crisis, leaders must prioritize their empowerment. This can be achieved by:

- *Protecting girls' rights*: Safeguarding girls' safety and dignity in crisis situations.

- *Providing education and skills*: Guaranteeing access to quality education and skill-building opportunities.

- *Amplifying girls' voices*: Creating platforms for girls to express themselves and lead initiatives in their communities.

Agbatutu pointed out that, "Organizations like UNICEF and the Glo Foundation are working to empower girls through health, education, and mentorship initiatives. The Glo Foundation's menstrual health campaign, for example, educates girls on menstrual hygiene, mental health, and gender-based violence."

"As we celebrate the International Day of the Girl Child 2025, let's recognize the courageous girls fighting to be heard and to lead change in crisis and conflict-affected communities. By investing in girls' education, health, and empowerment, we can create a brighter future for all."

The founder of the MHF concluded by saying that, "empowering girls in crisis is not only a moral imperative but also a smart investment for societies. By supporting girls, we can build a more just, inclusive, and prosperous world. Let's work together to ensure every girl has the opportunity to thrive and lead."

Follow-up questions:

1. What are some ways to support girls in crisis situations?

2. How can we address the root causes of gender-based violence and child marriage?

3. What role can organizations play in empowering girls worldwide?