By Olusegun Obisanya
The Society of Women Accountants of Nigeria (SWAN) has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering the girl child through education, leadership development, and advocacy, as the world marks the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child.
The global event, observed annually on October 11, celebrates the potential of girls while highlighting the challenges they face. This year’s theme, “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls on the Frontlines of Crisis,” underscores the resilience and leadership of girls navigating crises in their homes, communities, and societies.
SWAN is the female wing of the prestigious Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN).
In a statement issued by the association and signed by the National Chairperson of SWAN, Blessing Osakwe-Ogo, the association expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to commemorate the day alongside millions of girls and advocates worldwide. She emphasised that empowering the girl child has remained one of SWAN’s core passions and guiding visions, describing it as “the foundation of nation-building and social transformation.”
“We do not take for granted forming the hand that rocks the cradle. Every day, the girl child is on the frontline of crisis in every aspect of her life, yet she continues to demonstrate courage, brilliance, and leadership potential despite the odds,” Osakwe-Ogo said.
The SWAN chairperson noted that girls across the world are increasingly proving their mettle in academics, leadership, and innovation, even in the face of social, economic, and cultural barriers. She cited performance in the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) examinations as an example, observing that female candidates often take the lead in professional achievements.
“From research and live experiences, we can see that girls are developing and improving despite the challenges they face. They are showing determination, focus, and leadership traits that inspire change in their schools and communities,” she added.
Osakwe-Ogo, however, stressed that for the 2025 theme to translate into meaningful change, deliberate efforts must be made to create safe spaces and opportunities that empower girls to thrive. She urged stakeholders – including government agencies, educational institutions, civil society groups, and families – to provide psychosocial support, access to quality education, and mentorship for girls, particularly those in vulnerable or crisis-prone environments.
She explained that such interventions would help girls see themselves not merely as victims of circumstance but as active leaders and problem-solvers who are driving positive change.
“We must empower them to understand that they have the right to agency over their bodies and futures,” adding, “They should also be aware of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and take pride in their womanhood at every stage of life.”
Reaffirming SWAN’s long-standing dedication to the welfare of girls, SWAN leader highlighted that the association’s annual calendar of activities consistently includes initiatives aimed at improving the wellbeing of the girl child – from birth to adulthood. These include mentorship programs, educational outreach, financial literacy training, and leadership workshops designed to build confidence and resilience.
SWAN, she said, remains steadfast in supporting girls’ leadership and participation in society, and continues to use its platforms to amplify their voices and achievements.
“To every girl child out there, we say: your voice matters too! Share your stories, celebrate your achievements, and amplify your voice,” she urged. “Learning to love yourself is the greatest love of all. For no matter what society takes from you, it can never take…
