By Eunice Nnachi, Yenagoa
The Bayelsa State Commissioner for Information, Orientation, and Strategy, Mrs. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, has urged all stakeholders to increase their commitment toward the growth and empowerment of the girl child, describing it as a vital step toward strengthening families and building a more progressive society.
Mrs. Koku-Obiyai made this call during the commemoration of the International Day of the Girl Child, held at the Gabriel Okara Cultural Centre, Yenagoa.
Represented by Ms. Ruth Gwegwe, the Overseer of the Bayelsa Newspaper Corporation, the Commissioner noted that the prosperity of any society is deeply tied to how it nurtures and educates its girls. She emphasized that while the state government has continued to implement programmes aimed at empowering women—particularly in rural areas—parents, guardians, teachers, and community leaders must complement these efforts by creating an enabling environment where girls can thrive.
According to her, the deliberate promotion of education, mentorship, and self-development among young girls remains key to unlocking their potential. She stressed that empowering one girl uplifts an entire family, strengthens the community, and contributes to the nation’s overall development.
Mrs. Koku-Obiyai further highlighted the need to celebrate the resilience, confidence, and achievements of young girls who continue to overcome barriers in pursuit of their dreams.
In her remarks, Ms. Agnes Oloye, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women, Children Affairs, Empowerment, and Social Development, reaffirmed the indispensable role of mothers in shaping the lives of their daughters. She described mothers as the first teachers and moral guides whose influence determines a girl’s confidence, values, and vision for the future.
Ms. Oloye called for stronger collaboration between communities, civil society, and government agencies to equip mothers with the tools and knowledge necessary to nurture, guide, and protect their daughters through education, mentorship, and love. She emphasized that access to quality education, healthcare, safety, and equal opportunities is essential for every girl, stressing that “wealth and success are not gender-biased; every girl must be given the chance to reach her full potential.”
Delivering a paper on “Rape, Sexual Abuse and the Health Implications,” Dr. Gesitari Diriyai, a Consultant Paediatrician at the Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital, Okolobiri, called for the establishment of guidance and counseling units in schools to support victims of abuse. She urged religious institutions, schools, and community leaders to raise awareness and encourage survivors to speak out.
Similarly, Barrister Inemotimi Teibowei, in a presentation titled “Rape, Sexual Abuse and the Law,” condemned sexual violence against minors, describing it as a serious violation of human dignity. She advised young girls to speak up against their abusers rather than endure in silence.
The event also featured a variety of activities—including cultural dances, a beauty pageant, a talk show, a spelling bee, and a drama performance—showcasing the creativity, confidence, and talent of the Bayelsa girl child.
