By Vivian Emoni
Abuja, Aug. 23, 2026 (NAN) An NGO, African Girl’s Guide (AGG), has empowered more than 37 women through a 12-week mentorship and leadership programme for national development.
The Founder, Mr Jindu Elueze, made the disclosure at the Graduation and Award Ceremony of the leadership programme, organised by the NGO, on Sunday in Abuja.
Elueze said that the organisation was expanding its women empowerment initiative to Nigeria and Ghana.
He said that the graduates demonstrated commitment, learning and personal growth during the 12-week initiative.
He said his journey to the U.S. inspired him to empower young African women through mentorship and leadership.
The founder said that the initiative started by feeding homeless pets and their families before growing into a recognised movement in Chicago, U.S.
He said that in spite of the recognition received in America, he remained focused on giving back to the continent that raised him.
He urged the graduates and about 10 beneficiaries, who received outstanding awards to see the initiative as the beginning of greater opportunities and service to Africa.
Dr Binyerem Ukaire, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and National Orientation, commended the organisation for initiating and sustaining programmes focused on leadership, mentorship, employability, entrepreneurship and personal development.
Ukaire was represented by Mrs Aisha Dabena, from the information ministry.
He said that the programmes were crucial to preparing young Nigerians women to contribute meaningfully to national development through acquired knowledge, confidence and skills.
He said the successful completion of the programme demonstrated that young women could become effective leaders when provided with opportunities, guidance, exposure and commitment.
The permanent secretary urged the graduating participants to view the graduation as the beginning of greater responsibility, encouraging them to embrace continuous learning, innovation and ethical leadership.
He commended the founder, management, mentors, facilitators and partners for nurturing young women and creating platforms for their personal and professional development.
He said the ministry would strengthen collaboration with the organisation in promoting responsible citizenship, youth development and inclusive participation.
Also, the Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Mr Ola Olukoyede, urged the graduates to lead with purpose, serve others and uphold integrity.
Olukoyede was represented by Mrs Aisha Mohammed, Head, Enlightenment and Re-orientation Department.
He said that Nigeria needed young people who are committed to positive change.
‘’Law enforcement alone can not curb corruption, hence, the need for proper upbringing and integrity training to discourage fraud and other vices, ” he said.
Mrs Binta Bello, Director-General, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, said the agency was committed to protecting human dignity.
Bello, who was represented by the agency’s Director, Public Enlightenment, Mrs Kehinde Akomolafe, expressed commitment to preventing women and girls from being trafficked, exploited or abused.
She urged the graduates to know their rights, guard their dreams and verify opportunities, particularly those received through social media, to avoid trafficking and exploitation.
Also, the Director-General, National Orientation Agency, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, said leadership was not about wielding authority, but creating positive change, doing what was right and inspiring others.
Issa-Onilu urged the graduates to be trustworthy, courageous, responsible and patriotic, while emphasising the need to represent Nigeria positively and uphold values that promote national development.
He was represented by Mrs Margaret Yenami, Deputy Director, Department of Abuse Rights and Narcotics of the agency.
The winner of the leadership programme was Miss Ezechukwu Chidinma.
She expressed gratitude for being a winner, and promised to do more for her community. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Esenvosa Izah