Seventeen-year-old Joy Ogah symbolically took over the office of Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, for a day on Monday.
The event, organised with PLAN International, allowed Ogah to advocate for the education and rights of girls nationwide.
During her brief tenure, Ogah highlighted that over 10.5 million children are out of school, with more than 60 per cent being girls.
She urged policymakers to prioritise inclusive, safe, and quality education, stressing that every girl deserves access to classrooms, dignity, and opportunity.
Vice President Shettima welcomed her advocacy, reaffirming the federal government’s commitment to advancing girl-child education and inclusive learning, and pledged continued engagement with NGOs to support youth-led initiatives.
Health and basic amenities in schools
Ogah also called for access to free sanitary products, clean water, proper sanitation, and adequate nutrition in schools. She noted that addressing these basic needs is essential for girls to participate fully in education without barriers.
She said, “When girls are protected, peace becomes possible,” urging that these concerns be integrated into national policies and school programs. The Office of the Vice President acknowledged her recommendations and committed to working with relevant ministries to implement practical solutions.
Ongoing national initiatives
Ogah’s advocacy aligns with ongoing federal programs, such as the Renewed Hope Social Impact Interventions, which targets over 10 million women across Nigeria with livelihood grants, digital skills, and clean energy access.
The Ministry of Education and National Assembly continue to promote gender-inclusive policies, including mentorship and sensitisation programs to remove gender bias in schools.
Ogah’s symbolic role underscores the importance of youth participation in shaping policies that affect their futures.