By Ghazali Ibrahim
Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, on Monday, temporarily vacated his seat to allow a teenage girl, Joy Ogah, symbolically assume the role of Vice President, a gesture aimed at promoting girl-child education and leadership inclusion.
Shettima announced the move in a post on his X page on Tuesday, describing it as part of an initiative to inspire young girls to aspire to leadership roles and reaffirm the government’s commitment to female empowerment through education.
The symbolic act took place at the Presidential Villa in Abuja during a courtesy visit by a delegation from PLAN International, led by Helen Mfonobong Idiong, the organisation’s Director of Programme, Quality and Innovation.
Speaking at the event, Shettima emphasized the Tinubu administration’s dedication to advancing education for girls, noting that the federal government has made significant strides through various interventions, including the school feeding programme.
“Among other government interventions in girl-child education, the school feeding programme remains essential,” Shettima said.
“Studies have shown that well-nourished children are better formed. We will continue to engage with PLAN International and align government strength with your advice on girl-child education.”
Observers described the symbolic handover as a powerful message of inclusion, underscoring the government’s effort to encourage young girls to dream beyond limits.
The Vice President reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to deepen partnerships with both local and international organizations to advance education and equal opportunities for young women.
“We value our partnership with PLAN International and welcome continued collaboration to ensure that every girl has a fair chance at education and leadership,” he said.
The initiative mirrors a recent act by Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, who also stepped aside to let 18-year-old Williams Grace serve as “Minister for a Day” in commemoration of the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child.
