By Abubakar Yunusa
The Axis of Hope Initiative, a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), has pledged to cover the West African Examination Council (WAEC) fees for underprivileged students at the Government Secondary School, Phase 4, Kubwa, located in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
Speaking at the school on Wednesday, Barrister Maxwell Mgbudem, founder of the NGO and Chairman of the National Accord Party, emphasised the organisation’s commitment to turning vulnerabilities into strength.
“Our aim is to ensure no girl is left behind. We believe in the future of the girl child, and education is key to unlocking that future,” he said.
Mgbudem highlighted the importance of protecting and empowering girls, especially in light of challenges such as molestation and rape, which disproportionately affect them.
He added that the NGO’s decision to cover the WAEC fees of indigent students was part of a broader mission to equip young girls with the tools they need to succeed.
“When you educate a girl child, you educate a nation. This is our way of contributing to their future and ensuring that every girl has access to the education they deserve.”
Dr Anderson Kolawole Oseh, the Director Principal of the school, expressed gratitude for the NGO’s efforts, noting the global challenges facing girls, including child marriage and unequal access to education.
He remarked, “One in five girls worldwide marries before the age of 18, and two-thirds of the world’s illiterate population are women. This initiative is timely, and we hope more organisations follow suit.”
In line with the theme of this year’s International Day of the Girl Child, “Girls’ Vision for the Future,” the event addressed critical issues faced by girls today, including sexual violence and societal expectations.
Axis Hope Initiative’s legal counsellor, Barrister Penninah Ugonyork, pointed out the broader societal failures in protecting girls’ rights.
“We cannot close our eyes to the psychological and emotional abuse that girls endure. It is imperative we reorient our society, starting with the girl child.”
The event concluded with a renewed call for action, urging the government and other stakeholders to intensify efforts in creating pathways for girls to realise their full potential.
