The Federal Government has called on the media to promote narratives that showcase the strength, resilience, and achievements of girls and women, emphasizing that the stories society tells about them often influence public perception and the opportunities available to them.
Media Dialogue on Girls' Education
This appeal was made during a media dialogue organized by the Federal Ministry of Education in collaboration with the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) project. The event, themed “The Girls in the Mirror: Media as Catalysts for Change in Girls’ Education,” took place in Lagos.
Minister of State for Education, Suwaiba Said Ahmad, noted that while reports frequently focus on the vulnerabilities and challenges facing girls, there is a pressing need to deliberately highlight their achievements, determination, and capacity to succeed.
According to her, girls are often stronger and more resilient than they are given credit for, as many take on responsibilities within homes and communities while still striving to pursue education and personal development. She stressed the importance of balanced opportunities between boys and girls, arguing that no society can make meaningful progress when half of its population is left behind.
Representation Matters
Ahmad also emphasized that representation is crucial in inspiring younger generations. Girls are more likely to believe in their potential when they see women succeeding in leadership positions and other areas of national life. She called on journalists and content creators to amplify stories that build confidence and open doors for girls, rather than narratives that discourage or diminish them.
“Report not only the crises and challenges but also the successes, hard work, and determination of girls and women across the country. The media can shape ambitions and influence how society views the girl child,” she said.
AGILE Project Milestones
The dialogue also highlighted efforts to address barriers limiting girls’ access to education through the AGILE project, a $1.2 billion intervention supported by the World Bank and implemented in 21 states across Nigeria.
National Project Coordinator of AGILE, Amina Buba Haruna, explained that the initiative aims to improve secondary education opportunities for girls, particularly in states with low participation rates and infrastructural challenges. Since its launch in 2022, the project has achieved significant milestones, including the renovation of schools, construction of classrooms, provision of water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities in federal unity colleges, as well as the deployment of solar-powered mobile toilets to support effective learning environments.
Haruna added that over 1.8 million girls have benefited from conditional cash transfers designed to reduce poverty-related obstacles to education. Additionally, more than two million girls have been equipped with digital literacy and other life skills. The project also provides opportunities for married and unmarried out-of-school girls through alternative education programmes.
Responsible Storytelling
Group CEO of RED | For Africa, Ayodeji Razaq, urged journalists to tell stories from the perspective of those directly affected to promote understanding and social change. He emphasized that people should be portrayed as heroes of their own narratives, and storytellers should avoid poverty tourism, focusing instead on positive, impactful narratives.
Coach Enifome Ogbimi warned that responsible storytelling should not dehumanize people, noting that while negative news may attract attention, a troubled society ultimately affects everyone.
Media practitioner Sheriff Quadri said changing the narrative must begin at home, urging parents to provide equal opportunities for boys and girls.
Head of Presentation at Channels Television, Adejoke Rogers, advised journalists to adopt more constructive approaches when reporting stories involving girls, while ensuring the protection of minors affected by abuse or rights violations.
General Manager of Universal Television Africa, Chinemenma Umeseaka, called for empathy and tolerance in efforts to change cultural attitudes, adding that women should be encouraged to succeed through hard work and determination.
