Rt. Hon. (Dr) Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly (LAHA), has clearly demonstrated his heartfelt commitment to the empowerment and upliftment of young girls. This dedication was prominently showcased at the annual symposium and grand ball organized by the NIMA Memorial Care Foundation, held at the Lagos Marriott Hotel and Resorts on Sunday. This year’s event embraced the theme “Empowering Futures: Clean Water and Hygiene Support For Girl Child.”
Although Speaker Obasa was unable to attend the symposium in person, his sentiments were represented by Hon. Prince Richard Adedamola Kasunmu, Deputy Majority Leader of LAHA. In his opening remarks, Kasunmu connected the audience to the renowned Afrobeat musician Fela Anikulapo’s song, “Water no get enemy,” setting a meaningful tone for his speech. He expressed the Speaker’s steadfast support for the rights of young girls, advocating for their equal treatment and underscoring the necessity to see them as deserving citizens rather than second-class individuals.
Speaker Obasa’s administration has proactively championed female inclusivity within its cabinet by concentrating on ensuring access to clean water and proper hygiene. Partnerships with various foundations aim to provide sustainable clean water solutions for rural settings and educational institutions, aligning with the needs of the girl child.
Representing Speaker Obasa, Kasunmu assured attendees that their endeavors would persistently aim for tangible improvements to enhance the quality of life for young girls within the community.
During the event, Co-founder Mrs. Zainab Fashipe shared insights into the numerous obstacles that girls face, pinpointing a dire shortage of clean water and sanitary conditions. She provided poignant examples illustrating the reality of inadequate menstrual hygiene practices among young females.
The NIMA Memorial Care Foundation was established to continue the altruistic legacy of Nimatallahi Monturayo Alake Fashipe, who tragically passed away at age 20 on March 2, 2023. Nimatallahi’s profound impact on helping street children, providing clear water solutions in northern regions, and equipping orphans with essential skills provided the foundation for perpetuating her humanitarian contributions.
During her speech, Mrs. Fashipe implored government entities, humanitarian agencies, and the Nigerian populace to back this noble cause, mentioning that their endeavors have been predominantly financed by donations and proceeds from her late daughter’s soap business.
The symposium drew remarkable attention from distinguished guests like Prof. Anthony Kila, well-respected Director and Founder of the Commonwealth Institute of Advanced and Professional Studies. Prof. Kila delivered an encouraging address, advocating for heightened government, individual, and corporate support towards the NIMA Memorial Foundation, recognizing its significant role in advocating for educational and developmental opportunities for young girls.
Additionally, veteran Nollywood actress Ronnie Dikko made a notable contribution by lending her voice to the mission. She committed to offering her consistent support to the foundation and pledged her availability whenever required.
Furthermore, the attendance of representatives from the Ogun and Lagos State commissioners, alongside the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development of Lagos State, lent governmental legitimacy and encouragement to the event’s proceedings.
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