The House of Representatives made a remarkable statement on October 10, 2024, as 16-year-old Isabel Anani, a passionate gender advocate, presided over a special session, stepping into the Speaker’s role thanks to Speaker Tajudeen Abbas’s gesture. This event marked a significant celebration of the International Day of the Girl Child, an annual observance established by the United Nations on October 11.

Accompanied by female students from various schools in the Federal Capital Territory, Isabel was introduced as the “Speaker for the Day.” During the session, Speaker Abbas emphasized the vital importance of girls in society, recognizing their resilience and potential to create a brighter future.

Organized by Plan International Nigeria, a non-governmental organization dedicated to children’s rights, the ceremony brought attention to the challenges girls face globally. Before relinquishing his seat, Speaker Abbas addressed the assembly, stating, “Today, we join the global community in commemorating the International Day of the Girl Child. This day serves to highlight the obstacles girls encounter worldwide while celebrating their strength and crucial roles in shaping our future.”

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He further acknowledged the presence of girls from public secondary schools, reminding everyone of the importance of investing in girls’ education and empowerment in Nigeria. The introduction of Isabel Anani as “Speaker for the Day” highlighted the potential of young leaders.

Isabel, recognized for her advocacy for gender equality, serves as the youngest member of Nigeria’s Technical Working Group for Adolescent Health and Wellbeing and is a UNICEF Young Influencer. She was selected for this prestigious role after an extensive application process, emerging as the top candidate among applicants from across the country.

During her session, Isabel led discussions on a motion titled “Commemoration of the 2024 International Day of the Girl Child.” This motion, introduced by Kafilat Ogbara, the representative for Kosofe Federal Constituency in Lagos State, received strong support from the House spokesperson, Mr. Akin Rotimi.

As she addressed the assembly, Isabel shared her vision for a future where every girl, regardless of her background, has the opportunity to thrive. “I envision a world where education is not a privilege but a fundamental right,” she asserted. Isabel underscored the importance of education in empowering girls to make decisions affecting their lives and communities.

Highlighting her aspirations as a future woman in STEM, Isabel voiced her desire for inclusivity in male-dominated fields. “I don’t want to be the only girl; I want to be one of many,” she declared, stressing the need for a supportive healthcare system and educational access for all girls.

The motion received unanimous support from the House, which then called for collaboration among relevant agencies, schools, and community organizations to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and promote a drug-free lifestyle. They also advocated for initiatives to educate out-of-school girls throughout the nation.

Furthermore, the House urged the leadership of the National Assembly to amend the Child’s Rights Act to better protect sexually abused children and expedite the passage of legislation aimed at safeguarding women and girls, including the Gender and Equal Opportunities Bill.