By Philip Yatai
The Helpline Social Support Initiative (HSSI) has dedicated the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child (IDG) to the enduring memory and legacy of the late Sakinah Suleiman, former Speaker of the Voice of the Girls’ Parliament (VOGP).
The President of HSSI, Dr Jumai Ahmadu, disclosed this in a statement in Abuja on Sunday to commemorate the day, with the theme, “End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights!”
Ahmadu said Suleiman, born on Oct. 11, 2004, the day set aside to commemorate the IDG, died on Oct. 5, 2026.
Remembering her as a “rare gem”, the president said Suleiman devoted her life to championing girls’ rights, access to quality education and active civic participation across Nigeria.
Reflecting on the young girl’s impact, Ahmadu said: “Suleiman reminded us what leadership rooted in compassion looks like.
“So, we dedicate this International Day of the Girl Child to her memory, to celebrate her achievements, carry forward her mission for girls’ rights and ensure her voice continues to shape policies and lives.
“To honour her legacy, the initiative plans to publish dedicated media tributes and inaugurate targeted advocacy campaigns, engaging policymakers and healthcare professionals.”
The president explained that the campaign would ensure young girls pursue their dreams without the threat of preventable or fatal illnesses.
She urged governments, international donors and local communities to improve paediatric and youth medical care, strengthen retention rates for girls in schools and create protected environments for emerging youth leaders.
Ahmadu disclosed that a delegation of VOGP coordinators, including Mrs Jane Chinwe and Mrs Amina Omale, had paid a condolence visit to Suleiman’s family.
She added that the family expressed deep gratitude for their daughter’s impactful life and thanked the community for their overwhelming support during this difficult time.
“Supporters and well-wishers looking to honour Suleiman’s legacy are encouraged to join the cause by volunteering as mentors with the VOGP or contributing directly to health and education initiatives for young girls.”
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Suleiman’s rise to prominence began in 2020 when, at just 16 years old, she was elected Speaker of the VOGP after delivering an inspiring manifesto to peers, parents and coordinators.
Throughout her tenure, she led impactful parliamentary debates on youth welfare, mentored young female delegates across Nigeria and spearheaded campaigns advocating for enhanced healthcare and educational opportunities for young girls.
While pursuing her studies as a fourth-year nursing student and battling illness, Suleiman remained steadfast in her dedication to community healthcare and youth empowerment.
Her remarkable poise and leadership earned her national recognition, prompting former Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Dr Ramatu Aliyu, to appoint her as minister for a day in October 2020. (NAN)
Edited by Muhammad Lawal
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