Girls sound off on their education demands from Nigerian policymakers

Photo credit: Victor Audu

On International Day of the Girl, girls and young women gathered in Nigeria to tell policymakers exactly what they need to accomplish their vision for the future. Led by girls, for girls this was an opportunity for them to share their ideas and drive policy change.

When decisions are made about girls without girls, they rarely benefit them. Nigerian girls marked International Day of the Girl by demanding a seat at the table, sharing their vision for education, and calling for policy changes that put girls first. Tired of being silenced, they’re asserting their right to shape their own destiny. 

Last week, these courageous girls stood before decision-makers, sharing their stories, passions and demands. It is clear: girls know what girls want and they’re no longer willing to let adults decide for them!

We have gathered powerful quotes highlighting their determination, resilience, and vision for a brighter future. Their words serve as a reminder: girls’ education is the key to unlocking a better world for all.

“Girls suffer when a nation’s policies are poorly implemented, having their aspirations and even lives cut short. We do not have to wait for the next victim to take action. 7.6 million girls are out there counting and waiting on the next policy, the next law, the next bill that would recognize their challenges, listen to them and holistically favour them. We are here today to make that possible.” — Elizabeth, 21 

“We want safe and quality education for all girls, regardless of location or socio-economic status. We want to end gender bias in education, promoting STEM inclusion and challenging stereotypes [about girls in STEM]. Girls should be educated on menstrual and reproductive health and rights.” — Sa'adatu, 24

“To policymakers and stakeholders: I urge you to empower girls through education, value their voices and create inclusive policies. Together, let's ensure girls receive quality education, unlocking their potential. If the policymakers listen to girls and prioritise girl child education, it will help break barriers and change people’s negative mindsets that hinder our progress.” — Halima, 24

“We envision a world where girls can pursue their careers without limitations, make informed decisions about their bodies and futures and lead and participate in decision-making processes and break cycles of poverty and inequality.” — Sherifat, 21

“Girls have a vision that they want to achieve. They do not hawk by choice. If mechanisms were already in place and they had access to education, they would not be on the street. I’m raising my voice, with the voices of other girls, to ask [policymakers] to work faster. Your actions determine the answers to many of Nigeria's problems and we can't wait to take opportunities to become leaders and solve these problems ourselves.” — Deborah, 22

“Basic education has failed us. Girls are in school but they are not learning.” — Martha, 24