Meet Rita Shamiga, one-day acting Governor of Benue State

In a historic and empowering event held on the occasion of the International Day for a Girl Child, the people of Benue State witnessed the swearing-in of Hon. Rita Shamiga as the one-day acting governor of the state. Hon. Shamiga’s tenure as acting governor for the day was an exceptional celebration of girl power, highlighting the importance of girls’ education, empowerment, and equality.

The International Day for a Girl Child, observed globally on October 11th, aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by girls worldwide and promote their rights and well-being. In Benue State, this significant day was commemorated with a unique and inspiring twist.

In a ceremony held at the Benue State Government House, Hon. Rita Shamiga, a prominent women’s rights advocate and member of the state assembly, donned the title of Acting Governor for 24 hours. This groundbreaking initiative was organized to spotlight the immense potential of young girls and inspire them to dream big and pursue leadership roles.

During her one-day tenure, Acting Governor Shamiga embarked on various activities to raise awareness about girls’ rights and the importance of their education. She visited schools across the state, engaging with young girls and encouraging them to stay in school and pursue their dreams. Additionally, she led a panel discussion with stakeholders to address issues like child marriage, female genital mutilation, and unequal access to education, emphasizing the need for collective action to eliminate these obstacles.

Hon. Shamiga’s message was clear: “Girls are not just the future; they are the present. We must support, protect, and empower them to reach their full potential. We cannot afford to leave any girl behind.”

The one-day acting governor also announced a series of initiatives to advance girls’ rights and opportunities in Benue State. These include scholarships for girls, mentorship programs, and a commitment to strengthening legal protections against harmful traditional practices.

The event drew a significant audience, including educators, government officials, civil society organizations, and students, who all praised the symbolic gesture of having a woman lead the state even for a day.

The International Day for a Girl Child has always been a reminder of the need for gender equality and the elimination of discrimination against girls. Hon. Rita Shamiga’s one-day leadership was a powerful reminder that girls can lead, govern, and shape the future. Her Excellency’s dedication to empowering girls has left a lasting impact on Benue State, demonstrating the potential that can be unlocked when girls are given equal opportunities and support.

As the world celebrated the International Day for a Girl Child, Benue State made history by showing that the dreams and aspirations of girls are worth every bit of attention and investment. With leaders like Hon. Rita Shamiga paving the way, the future looks promising for the girls of Benue State and beyond.