In commemoration of the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child, Professor Yvonne Ebere Ihegihu, a renowned professor of Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, has urged the daughters of Akaboezem community of Uruagu Nnewi, Nnewi North Local Government of Anambra State, to strive for excellence. Speaking as the honored guest during the 2026 Akaboezem Day of the Girl Child celebration, Professor Ihegihu emphasized the global theme, “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead.”
Professor Ihegihu highlighted the numerous potentials the girl child is endowed with, irrespective of social status, physique, family background, or educational qualifications. She encouraged girls to pursue their desired professions, citing examples such as medicine, law, engineering, accounting, economics, teaching, pharmacy, and nursing. According to her, girls can achieve success in any field with hard work and dedication.
The guest speaker also emphasized the importance of courage and confidence in building a successful life. She encouraged girls to exhibit courage and stand up for the truth, even in the face of challenges. Professor Ihegihu also touched on the impact of social media on girls, advising them to be positive-minded and socially conscious.
Professor Ihegihu advocated for dignity among African girl children, encouraging them to build their self-worth and respect themselves. She advised girls to be polite and firm, make their points honorably, and speak respectfully to elders. She also cautioned against posting or watching nude pictures on social media and protecting their bodies.
The event, which took place on Saturday, 26th September, 2026, at Obi Akaboezem, Akaboezem Uruagu Nnewi, was convened and hosted by Lolo Chiamaka Chukwuka, Queen Consort of Akaboezem, Uruagu Nnewi. The celebration included awarding scholarships to consistent and dedicated members of the Daughters of Africa Development Initiative by Lolo Chiamaka Chukwuka.
Other highlights of the event included the crowning of Miss Favour Okechukwu as Brand Ambassador of DAODI and the awarding of annual scholarships by Mrs. Chinwe Udogu, the CEO of Chimdiukwu Clinic and Maternity, Akaboezem, to two pupils who took 1st and 2nd positions in the last term school report. The event also featured the inauguration of Akaboezem Uruagu Girls Guild, a quiz competition, debate, cultural dance, and presentation of gifts.
Professor Ihegihu cited examples of women who had excelled in their fields, such as Dr. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala of the World Trade Organization, Dame Virgy Etiaba, the first and only female governor in Nigeria, Justice Mary Odili, a retired justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, Amina Mohammed, the immediate past Deputy Secretary General of the United Nations, and Zuril Adewale. She encouraged the daughters of Akaboezem to emulate these women and become global icons.
Key points
- Professor Yvonne Ebere Ihegihu urges girls to pursue excellence and build their dignity.
- The event celebrated the International Day of the Girl Child with various activities, including scholarships and awards.
- Professor Ihegihu cited examples of successful women in Nigeria, encouraging girls to emulate them.
