On this International Girl Child Day, Zainab Adeola Bakare writes a powerful letter to fellow girls around the world, encouraging them to embrace their potential, break through societal barriers, and take charge of their futures. Highlighting the importance of education and the power within every girl to create meaningful change, Bakare urges young girls to rise above limitations placed by society.

In a world where women are often undervalued, Bakare reminds girls that they are “pregnant with a dream that needs to be unleashed.” She passionately calls for an end to child marriage and the burden of early motherhood, advocating instead for girls to focus on education and self-development. “You are an instrument of change,” she writes, emphasizing that the world needs every girl’s unique contributions.

Breaking Barriers with the Inspiration of Strong Women

To motivate young girls, Bakare draws upon the stories of powerful African women who overcame adversity to make their mark on the world. Hajiya Sambo Sawaba, a fierce activist for women’s rights, fought against underage marriage, forced labor, and inequality. Despite dropping out of school and enduring multiple imprisonments, she led the liberation of northern Nigerian women and pushed for Western education.

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Similarly, the late Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti played a key role in Nigeria’s independence movement and championed women’s emancipation. Folorunsho Alakija, a successful businesswoman, created jobs and supported education, while Isabel dos Santos of Angola became Africa’s richest woman through strategic investments.

These women, Bakare says, are proof that girls can rise to greatness regardless of their backgrounds or the challenges they face. She emphasizes that the lives of these trailblazers should inspire today’s girls to break free from societal expectations.

The Power of Hard Work and Consistency

Bakare also shares the inspiring story of Ladi Kwali, a Nigerian potter whose craft earned her international recognition despite her lack of formal education. Kwali’s dedication to her art made her a pioneer in African ceramic art, and her image is now honored on Nigeria’s ₦20 note.

Through this example, Bakare urges girls to take pride in whatever they do and to remain consistent in their efforts. “Consistency pays; hard work pays,” she writes, encouraging girls to keep striving no matter where they come from or the obstacles they face.

A Call for Change

Bakare’s message extends to women in politics, urging them to become more than figureheads and to actively work for the betterment of society. She believes that women can drive meaningful change in the country, just as Winnie Madikizela-Mandela did in South Africa’s fight against apartheid.

In closing, Bakare’s heartfelt letter calls on girls to never underestimate their worth or potential. “The world is waiting for you!” she writes, encouraging every girl to embrace her inner strength, break barriers, and make her mark on the world.

Zainab Adeola Bakare, a final-year student and President of the Department of Philosophy at Lagos State University, is passionate about empowering the next generation of girls to lead with courage and confidence.