The Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN) has joined the world to mark the International Day of the Girl Child, noting that Nigeria has about 13.2 million out-of-school children, with the girl-child making up over half of this number.
This was contained in a press release signed by the National Amirah of the society, Alhaja Rofiah Idowu Sanni after the National Executive meeting in Abuja over the weekend.
Muslim News findings revealed that every 11th of October is a day set aside by the United Nations to celebrate the Girl-Child across the globe.
Known as the International Day of the Girl Child, the annual event, which commenced in 2012, has created more opportunities for girls and increased awareness of inequality faced by girls in terms of access to education, protection from discrimination, gender violence, legal rights, medical care, and nutrition.
The theme of this year’s celebration was “Digital Generation: Our Generation”.
Alhaja Sanni said, “FOMWAN joined the world to recognize the 2021 International Day of the Girl Child, with the theme: Digital Generation: Our Generation. The theme is apt, considering the global trend of digitalization for results, and FOMWAN is using technology-driven programmes for results.
“Nigeria has 13.2 million out-of-school children. The girl-child accounts for 60 percent of this figure. This worrisome reality requires decisive action to remedy the situation. Moreover, the Prophet (SAW) has mandated all Muslims to seek knowledge from cradle to the grave. The first instruction to the Noble Prophet was READ, showing the importance of knowledge.”
Speaking on, she also expressed concerns over the high rate of drug abuse among young girls and women. She noted that the abuse of drugs is becoming rampant among the female gender, especially at a tender age.
She, therefore, advocates for collective efforts and support for the government in eradicating the menace.
According to her, “The issue of drug abuse is another big issue, seriously affecting the girls and many young women. So saddening is that many of our girls are introduced to the abuse of drugs from a young age and this they continue to do till adulthood. If no important steps are taken to arrest this situation, then the future of the world is undoubtedly at stake.
“FOMWAN therefore, advocates for all hands to be on deck to move Nigeria forward, and reduce the disturbing Social Welfare/Poverty indices in the different parts of Nigeria. This we can do by giving support to the government, across all levels, in whatever way we can, to bring about tranquility and development of our country.
“Remember, all Muslims are encouraged to have exemplary character and behavior, as well as maintain good leadership and relationship with all and sundry. We must imbibe the culture of respect, honesty, forgiveness, integrity among others in line with the teachings of the Qur’an and the Sunnah”, she emphasised.
By Abdul Waheed Shotonwa
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