On October 11, 2025, the Girl Child Initiative Outreach, in collaboration with the Imo State WASH Sector and the SURWASH team, held a vibrant celebration marking the International Day of the Girl Child and the 10th anniversary of the outreach program. The event, hosted at the Imo State Water and Sewerage Corporation headquarters, was a powerful tribute to girl child advocacy and empowerment under the visionary leadership of Engr. Chizoba Justin Udegbe, Managing Director and SURWASH Project Coordinator, and Distinguished Patriot Evangelist Ohaeri Kelechi Stanley, a committed voice and advocate for the girl child.

The event brought together young girls from various secondary schools across the state, including Fidel Oxford International Secondary School, Owerri Girls Secondary School, Gifted Brain International Secondary School, St. John Leonardi Secondary School Owerri, Methodist High School Orji, Nnuola International Secondary School, Umudagu City College, and Rochas Foundation College Orji. These students were at the heart of the celebration, embodying the strength, resilience, and leadership potential of the modern Nigerian girl child.

In his opening address, Engr. Udegbe emphasized the critical role of clean water, sanitation, hygiene (WASH), health, education, and gender equality in shaping a secure and enabling environment for girls. He highlighted the WASH sector’s commitment to advancing not only infrastructure but also social impact, particularly in support of the girl child.

Representing the Honourable Commissioner Barr. Obinna Ozo Ogwuegbu and the Permanent Secretary Dr. Izuwa Obilor of the Ministry of Water Resources, Ugoeze Theresa Ekechi encouraged the girls to embrace education and empowerment as tools for transforming their future. She urged them to aspire toward becoming women of influence, capable of leading change in their communities and beyond.

The keynote address was delivered by Barr. Ndidi Anike Val-Okeoma, Esq., who spoke passionately on the theme: “The Girl: I Am the Change, I Lead – Girls on the Frontline of Crisis.” Her message was a stirring call to action, challenging the girls to rise above societal limitations and become bold agents of change, especially in times of crisis. Her speech resonated deeply, reinforcing the belief that every girl has the power to lead and inspire transformation.

A major highlight of the event was the official launch of the Girl Child Club across secondary schools in Imo State. This was followed by the flag-off of the “One Girl, One Skill” initiative, designed to equip girls with practical, life-sustaining skills aimed at fostering self-reliance and economic empowerment from an early age.

The event was graced by several dignitaries and community leaders, including:

Dr. (Rev.) Mrs. Carol Ochemba

Kabiyesi

Mr. Agunobi Johnkennedy, General Manager, RUWASSA

Rev. Amb. Christopher Ineh, Director, Susan Chris Group of Schools

Hon. Mrs. Getrude Lebechi Nwanegwu, Wife of the Mbaitoli LGA Chairman

Hon. Clara Njoku, Commissioner, Imo State House of Assembly Commission

SP Kelechi Mbachu (Rtd.)

Director/Nigeria Representative of Pointman Institute

In his closing remarks, the convener, Evangelist Ohaeri Kelechi Stanley, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed to the event’s success — from participating schools to stakeholders and supporters. He reaffirmed his commitment to sustained advocacy, continuous empowerment, and creating platforms that nurture and spotlight the potential of every girl child. Select dignitaries were also honored with appreciation awards for their unwavering support.

The event concluded with a colorful group photograph, symbolizing unity, shared purpose, and a collective vision for a future where every girl is empowered to thrive. The 2025 celebration was not only commemorative but also action-driven — a fitting tribute to the past decade of impact and a clarion call for the journey ahead.

Indeed, this year’s celebration lived up to its theme — honoring the girl child as a leader, a change-maker, and a force on the frontline of progress.

Uzoamaka Odom
Communication Officer