Former Nigerian international and Olympic medallist, Ambassador Christy Opara, has announced plans to empower 400 girls through sports and mentorship. The programme, themed “Empowerment of the Girl-child Through Sports Development, Education and Performances”, aims to commemorate the 2026 International Day of the Girl-child. The event will take place on October 8, at the Soho24 Foundation Sports Park, Kado, Abuja.
The beneficiaries of the programme are 400 girls drawn from JSS 3 to SS1 from Secondary Schools located within the Kado axis. Opara stated that the programme, organised with the support of various partners, underscores the need for collective responsibility in protecting the rights, dignity, education, and future of girls. The partners include the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), National Council for Women Societies (NCWS), and Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV).
Beyond sports, the initiative provides opportunities for girls to learn, compete, perform, build confidence, and discover their talents. Opara emphasized that the programme aligns with SDGs 4, 5, and 10 on quality education, gender equality, and reduced inequalities. She urged government, parents, schools, traditional and religious leaders, corporate bodies, and the media to support girl-child empowerment.
Opara stressed the importance of investment in the girl-child, stating that it is not simply an investment in today, but an investment in tomorrow. The foundation also unveiled the ICPC and the National Council for Women Societies (NCWS) as new partners, while appreciating the Defence Headquarters, Nigeria Immigration Service, and other stakeholders for supporting its 2025 maiden edition.
The empowerment programme will feature students learning skills such as hair braiding, tailoring, weaving, and other things. Opara called for action beyond awareness, emphasizing that every girl deserves a future, opportunity, protection, education, and a voice. The programme aims to make a positive impact on the lives of the 400 girls.
The event is scheduled to hold on October 8, ahead of the October 11 International Day of the Girl-child. Opara's initiative has garnered support from various stakeholders, and the programme is expected to be a success. The ICPC and NCWS have been unveiled as new partners, further solidifying the programme's credibility.
The programme's objectives include promoting girl-child empowerment, education, and sports development. Opara's efforts have been commended by various stakeholders, and the programme is expected to have a lasting impact on the lives of the beneficiaries. Key partners have been acknowledged for their support, and the programme is set to achieve its goals.
Key points
- Christy Opara's programme aims to empower 400 FCT school girls through sports and mentorship.
- The programme aligns with SDGs 4, 5, and 10 on quality education, gender equality, and reduced inequalities.
- The event is scheduled to hold on October 8, ahead of the October 11 International Day of the Girl-child.
