- Seventeen-year-old Joy Ogah served as Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, for a day.
- The symbolic handover aimed to amplify the voices of young people.
- The initiative was organized in collaboration with PLAN International.
Seventeen-year-old Joy Ogah stepped into the role of Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, for a day on Monday in a symbolic handover aimed at amplifying the voices of young people.
Organized in collaboration with PLAN International, the initiative gave Ogah a platform to champion the education and rights of girls across the country.
During her short tenure, she drew attention to the fact that more than 10.5 million children are currently out of school, with girls representing over 60 percent of this number. She called on policymakers to ensure education is safe, inclusive, and of high quality, emphasizing that every girl deserves the opportunity to learn with dignity.
Vice President Shettima expressed support for her advocacy, reiterating the federal government’s commitment to promoting girl-child education and inclusive learning. He also promised to maintain collaboration with NGOs to back youth-driven initiatives.
Ogah further stressed the need for schools to provide free sanitary products, access to clean water, proper sanitation, and adequate nutrition, highlighting that addressing these essentials is critical for girls’ uninterrupted participation in education.
She noted, “When girls are protected, peace becomes possible,” urging that these priorities be incorporated into national education policies and school programs. The Vice President’s office acknowledged her proposals and pledged to coordinate with relevant ministries to implement practical solutions.
Her advocacy aligns with federal initiatives such as the Renewed Hope Social Impact Interventions, which support over 10 million women nationwide through livelihood grants, digital skills training, and access to clean energy.
Additionally, the Ministry of Education and the National Assembly continue to push for gender-inclusive policies, including mentorship programs and campaigns to eliminate gender bias in schools.
Joy Ogah’s symbolic day in office highlights the critical role of young people in shaping policies that directly impact their futures.
