Rt. Hon. (Dr) Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly (LAHA), has demonstrated a deep commitment to supporting and empowering young girls. His dedication was highlighted during the annual symposium and grand ball hosted by the NIMA Memorial Care Foundation, held at the Lagos Marriott Hotel and Resorts on Sunday.
This year event focused on the theme “Empowering Futures: Clean Water and Hygiene Support For Girl Child.”
Although Speaker Obasa was unable to attend the event in person, he was represented by Hon. Prince Richard Adedamola Kasunmu, the Deputy Majority Leader of LAHA. Before delivering the speaker’s welcome address, Kasunmu referenced the Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo’s famous song, “Water no get enemy,” as an entry point into his speech. He conveyed the unwavering support for young girls, emphasizing their right not to be viewed as second-class citizens.
The administration, led by Speaker Obasa, has been proactively working to ensure equal opportunities for females within his cabinet, and importantly, has prioritized the issue of access to clean water and hygiene. Efforts are underway to provide clean water solutions for rural communities and public schools, partnering with various foundations to meet the needs of the girl child.
On behalf of Speaker Obasa, Kasunmu pledged that their efforts would not cease until tangible progress is made in ensuring the comfort and well-being of young girls within society.
During the event, Co-founder Mrs. Zainab Fashipe highlighted the numerous challenges faced by girls, particularly the lack of access to clean water and sanitary conditions, sharing poignant examples of inadequate menstrual hygiene practices among young girls.
The foundation, founded in memory of Nimatallahi Monturayo Alake Fashipe, who passed away at the age of 20 on March 2nd, 2023, is committed to continuing her legacy. Fashipe had significantly impacted street children, provided clean water solutions in northern regions, and equipped orphans with essential skills.
Through the foundation, the family aims to immortalize her contributions by focusing on empowering orphans, vulnerable children, and girls.
Mrs. Fashipe called upon the government, humanitarian organizations, and the Nigerian public to support their cause, noting that their activities have been funded through donations and proceeds from her late daughter’s soap production venture.
The event garnered significant attention with the presence of eminent personalities such as Prof. Anthony Kila, the esteemed Director and Founder of the Commonwealth Institute of Advanced and Professional Studies. He addressed the audience passionately, advocating for increased support from the government, individuals, and corporate entities towards the NIMA Memorial Foundation, emphasizing its pivotal role in bolstering education and opportunities for the girl child.
Equally notable was the participation of veteran Nollywood actress Ronnie Dikko, who lent her influential voice to the cause. She pledged her unwavering support to the foundation, promising to assist whenever her presence is requested.
Moreover, the event was graced by representatives from the Ogun and Lagos State commissioners, along with the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development of Lagos State, adding a touch of official recognition and support to the proceedings.
