In celebration of the 2024 International Day of the Girl Child, Miss Esther Adesanya Adesioye, a 17-year-old law student, assumed the role of the Minister of State for Youth Development for one day. Adesioye, a 100 Level Law student at the University of Abuja, earned this honor after emerging as the winner of the International Day of the Girl Child Essay Competition.
The initiative, aimed at spotlighting young female leaders, was part of a broader commitment by the Federal Government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The President has consistently advocated for a Nigeria where gender does not determine access to opportunities, and where girls are empowered to achieve their dreams without hindrance.
In a congratulatory message, the current Minister of State for Youth Development, Mr Ayodele Olawande praised Adesioye’s achievement, expressing confidence that her success would serve as an inspiration to other young girls across the nation. He emphasized that this milestone demonstrated the importance of encouraging excellence in Nigeria’s youth, particularly young girls, by removing cultural and social barriers that often inhibit their progress.
He also reiterated the Ministry’s dedication to supporting programs and initiatives that promote the development and empowerment of young people across Nigeria, reinforcing the government’s commitment to gender equity and youth advancement.
Miss Adesioye’s role as the one-day Minister of State for Youth Development is expected to inspire many young girls to aspire to leadership roles and challenge traditional norms that may limit their potential.
