In celebration of the 2024 International Girl Child Day, the Kogi State Government, through the Office of the Honorable Commissioner for Health, donated sanitary pads to over 500 students in Lokoja. This initiative, aimed at promoting menstrual hygiene and empowering young girls, highlights the state's dedication to the health and well-being of its citizens.
The Honorable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abdulazeez Adams Adeiza, was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Kogi State Ministry of Health, Pst. Mrs. Enehe Dorcas Omeneke, who delivered a heartfelt address.
She urged the girls to believe in themselves and work diligently toward greatness, emphasizing that women are essential to the fabric of society. Her words aimed to inspire the young audience to see themselves as future leaders who can shape the world.
Pharm. Salamat Onize, the Executive Secretary of the Kogi State Drugs and Medical Supply Management Agency (KSDMSMA), was the Guest Speaker. While discussing the theme of this year’s International Girl Child Day, "Girls' Vision for the Future," Pharm. Salamat praised the Honorable Commissioner for Health for his support and unwavering commitment to improving healthcare delivery in Kogi State. She also appreciated the Honorable Commissioner for this kind gesture toward the young girls during this year's International Day of the Girl, marking the first of its kind as Commissioner for Health in the state. She commended the Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, for his significant investment in the health sector, which has led to notable improvements in healthcare facilities and services across the state. She expressed her gratitude to the Permanent Secretary and other directors in the Ministry of Health for their show of support for the girls.
To effectively convey the message, the Guest Speaker dramatized the issue of forced marriage, engaging the students with a demonstration to help them understand the challenges associated with this harmful practice. She encouraged the girls to stay resilient and focused in pursuing a brighter future, reinforcing the importance of good education and personal hygiene during menstruation.
The event was graced by the presence of several dignitaries who delivered goodwill messages. Among them were Pharm. Kudirat Nasiru, Chairperson of the Association of Lady Pharmacists, Kogi State Chapter; Mrs. Aturu Christiana, Kogi State Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer; and Pharm. Tukura Rose, Coordinator of the Logistics Management Coordination Unit (LMCU). Their messages further inspired the students, reinforcing the significance of self-belief, education, and personal hygiene.
The beneficiaries of the special donation, from different schools including Crowther Memorial College, Bishop Delic School, UBE Holy Trinity School, and Good Shepherd, expressed their gratitude to the Honorable Commissioner for Health for the gift and were happy to be part of the colorful event. They also appreciated His Excellency for recognizing the special day and celebrating it.
In conclusion, the celebration was made even more memorable and fun with vibrant cultural dance performances, engaging speech presentations, and a playlet by the students, showcasing their talents and adding a lively touch to the occasion.
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