Govt Must Ensure Safety Of Schools, Communities – Country Director

Country director of Plan International, Dr Charles Usie, has pleaded with the federal and state governments to provide adequate security for students across the country.

Usie said many girls were struggling to remain in school due to insecurity, disruptions and fear, which continue to threaten their education and long-term opportunities.

He emphasised the urgent need to strengthen school safety and restore confidence in learning environments for girls across the country.

Usir stated this at a news briefing in Abuja, yesterday to mark the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence. He noted that many girls are struggling to remain in school due to insecurity, disruptions and fear, which continue to threaten their education and long-term opportunities.

Dr Usie emphasized that classrooms should serve as safe spaces where girls can learn without anxiety, yet incidents of violence and attacks on schools have weakened trust in the system.

He urged governments at all levels to reinforce the Safe School Declaration and prioritise measures that ensure stability, protection and continuity in education.

Beyond school safety, he further highlighted the emerging challenge of digital exposure for girls, with more learning happening online.

He said girls need safer digital environments that protect them from harassment, misinformation and harmful interactions.

”Strengthening digital literacy and responsible technology practices, is now essential for supporting girls in the digital age”, he noted.

He stressed that technology should expand opportunities for girls, especially in education and innovation.

He however called on stakeholders to invest in digital protection mechanisms and ensure girls can navigate online spaces with confidence and security.

Plan International also underscored the importance of economic empowerment as a key pillar of girls’ development.

According to him, many girls remain eager to acquire skills and contribute productively to their communities but lack access to financial resources and livelihood opportunities.

He said, “Expanding training, mentorship and income pathways, will help girls make informed choices about their futures for the betterment of society in general.”

He further advised traditional and religious leaders to champion positive practices that enable girls to access knowledge, leadership roles and community participation.

He noted that communities play a decisive role in either reinforcing or breaking barriers that limit girls’ potential.

“There is a need for federal government, states, local government to sustain investment for girls’ empowerment programs, skills development across the country,” he said.

He also urged stakeholders to support education and health programmes. Usie said consistent funding is crucial in areas such as reproductive health, sanitation, water, hygiene and overall wellbeing particularly in underserved communities.

As federal and state governments prepare their 2026 budgets, Plan International called for clear provisions that directly support girls’ protection and development.

Similarly, director of Programme Quality and Influencing, Dr Helen Idiong reaffirmed that Plan International’s support systems remain active beyond the campaign period.

She said the organisation provides safe channels for girls seeking help, ensuring continuous protection, guidance and empowered to pursue their aspirations without fear.