Hon. Taiwo Oluga, a member of the National Assembly Commission, has called on state governors to strengthen the enforcement of free and compulsory education for girls across Nigeria.
In a statement marking International Women’s Day, Oluga, a former House of Representatives member, stressed that education is key to securing women’s rights, equality, and empowerment.
She acknowledged improvements in girl-child education, particularly in urban areas, but emphasized the need for greater efforts in rural and underserved communities. She noted that much of the progress in promoting compulsory education for girls is concentrated in media-covered areas, which only represent a fraction of the real challenge. She urged the government to implement effective policies ensuring young girls in disadvantaged areas receive at least a basic education.
Oluga also underscored the importance of adult education programs to empower women in the informal sector, equipping them with skills and knowledge for better decision-making and economic independence.
She called on women’s groups to act as independent monitors, ensuring that empowerment initiatives under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda reach grassroots communities. She commended Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her contributions to advancing women’s empowerment, describing her initiatives as complementary to the government’s vision.
Encouraging young women to engage in politics, Oluga urged them to join political parties, contest leadership positions, and move beyond passive participation. She highlighted the crucial role of male allies in amplifying women’s voices and increasing their representation in leadership. Appealing to male leaders, particularly in political parties, she called for more encouragement and opportunities for women to assume leadership roles.
