Nigerian Teen Joy Ogah Takes VP Seat for a Day, Champions Girl-Child Education & Youth Leadership

In a powerful demonstration of commitment to girl-child education and youth empowerment, Nigerian teenager Joy Ogah recently stepped into the role of the nation's Vice President for a Day.

This inspiring event, a symbolic handover by Vice President Kashim Shettima, took place at the Presidential Villa in Abuja as part of a visit by the international development organization, Plan International.

The initiative, part of Plan International's global "Girls Takeover" campaign, underscores the federal government's dedication to fostering the next generation of female leaders and promoting gender equality across the country.

Assuming the esteemed seat, Miss Ogah delivered a passionate and articulate address that resonated with urgency. She specifically highlighted the troubling reality of 10.5 million out-of-school children in Nigeria, noting that over 60% are girls.

"We must invest in education that is safe and inclusive for every child in Nigeria," Ogah asserted, urging government officials, policymakers, and citizens to take strategic and deliberate action.

Miss Ogah poignantly concluded: "I may be the Vice President for a day, but the struggles I represent cannot end in a day. They must continue in our policies, our classrooms, our conversations, and our budgets.”

Vice President Kashim Shettima, while yielding his chair, reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu's administration's unwavering dedication to the cause. He assured the delegation that the government is "gender-friendly" and believes in "inclusivity," stressing, "We cannot disenfranchise half of our population and expect to grow as a nation.”

Shettima further praised First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu as "a symbol of how a properly empowered and supported girl-child can blossom into a great leader," citing her longstanding advocacy for education.

The event powerfully illustrates the ongoing collaboration between the Nigerian government and international development partners like Plan International in advancing the nation's human capital development goals, with a specific focus on unlocking the potential of young Nigerian women.