Over 500 girls in Ketti Community, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have benefitted from an empowerment initiative of Caleb Danladi Foundation as part of efforts to reduce the rising number of out-of-school children in Nigeria.
At an outreach held over the weekend to mark the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child, with the theme “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls at the Frontiers of Crisis,” the founder and president of the foundation, Capt. Caleb Danladi, stressed the urgency of tackling educational inequality, especially for girls in underserved areas.
“We cannot build a strong and inclusive society when our girls are left behind. Every girl deserves access to quality education, safety and equal opportunity to fulfil her dreams,” he said.
Danladi, a retired military officer, said educating girls is one of the most powerful ways to reduce poverty and promote gender equality.
The foundation donated over 1,500 sanitary pads to the girls, underlining its commitment to menstrual hygiene and reducing education disruption caused by a lack of sanitary products.
Barr Saratu Bissala Alao, the keynote speaker, tackled the stigma around menstruation.
She urged parents and leaders to create a supportive environment for girls’ health and dignity.
“Menstrual hygiene is not a luxury, it is a right,” she said during an interactive health session with the girls.
The event drew participation from traditional rulers, women and youth leaders, educators and child advocates.
The District Head of Ketti, alongside his wife, lauded the initiative as “timely and impactful,” calling for sustained collaboration between government, civil society, and traditional institutions.
The day featured cultural displays, motivational talks, and a question-and-answer session designed to inspire the girls to lead, dream,and take pride in their identity.
As the curtains closed on the celebration, the girls and their families expressed gratitude for the support and knowledge gained.
The Caleb Danladi Foundation reaffirmed its dedication to advancing the rights, education, and empowerment of girls across Nigeria’s rural communities.
