New Indian High Commissioner- Designate to Nigeria, Amb Abhishek Singh, has donated over 2,000 gift packs to the students of Government Girls Secondary School, Dutse in the Federal Capital Territory to mark the United Nations International Day of the Girl Child.
The event, which was the first for the Indian envoy since he arrived Nigeria, according to the High Commission, reaffirms India’s commitment to promote gender equality, women empowerment and women -led development both in India and globally.
Amb Singh noted that the gesture was part of his broader effort to further strengthen people-to-people ties.
“In line with the United Nations’ theme for the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child, this year’s celebration underscores the importance of investing in girls’ rights and opportunities for a better and more equitable future,” the envoy said.
He highlighted India’s growth story as the 4th largest economy and the increasing contribution of women in all sectors, including women in power as leaders encourage young girls to dream big and work hard to achieve their aspirations.
The envoy quoted Indian Prime Minister Modi as saying, “When a girl rises, a family grows and a nation shines,” even as he disclosed that women’s workforce participation rate grew from 22% in 2017–18 to 40.3% in 2023–24 in India. He added that women currently contribute 18% to India’s GDP, with this contribution steadily increasing.
The high commissioner acknowledged the vital role of girls in shaping inclusive societies, emphasising the need to invest in their health, education and overall well-being and extended gratitude to local authorities and Indian companies in Nigeria that partnered to make the event a success.
Director of FCT Education Board, Dr. Mohammed Sani Ladan, commended the high commissioner for his gesture, saying, “this shows how important the girl child is, “adding that it is an indication that girls can be dependable and reliable in any career.”
Also speaking, the School’s principal, Dr. Fatima Mohammed appreciated the High Commissioner for the kind gesture, adding that it is a testament to how India values girl-child education.
