Empowering the Next Generation: 50 Schoolgirls Trained in Health and Financial Literacy in Abuja 

The Ilimi Children’s Fund (ICF), in collaboration with WRTHY.Photo credit:  Ilimi Children’s Fund (ICF)

The Ilimi Children’s Fund (ICF), in collaboration with WRTHY, has taken a powerful step towards empowering adolescent girls by training 50 schoolgirls from 10 public secondary schools across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The training focused on sexual and reproductive health as well as financial literacy, all under the umbrella of ICF’s initiative titled “Teach Her to Reach Her.” 

According to Ms. Tovia Muo, the programme coordinator, this intervention is part of ICF’s broader Training, Advocacy, Research, and Mentorship (TARM) project. The aim is to equip young girls with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make informed choices and pursue financial independence. 

Breaking Myths and Building Confidence 

The training sessions addressed key issues often surrounded by stigma and misinformation. Participants learned about bodily autonomy, menstrual health, consent, and where to access support systems. The programme also focused on empowering the girls with practical money management skills such as saving, goal setting, and budgeting, helping them take control of their futures early on. 

    “We organised the training to address common misconceptions about reproductive health and help the girls understand their rights… We are creating a safe space where they can learn, grow, and dream,” said Ms. Tovia Muo. 

Collaborations That Made Impact Possible 

The success of the training was made possible through strategic partnerships. 

“When we equip girls with knowledge and confidence, we don’t just change their lives—we change the future of entire communities.” — Ms. Tovia Muo, Programme Coordinator, Ilimi Children’s Fund 

WRTHY provided technical and mentoring support. 

    The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) delivered rights-based sexual and reproductive health education. 

    The EDC Alumni Network facilitated financial literacy sessions that built the girls’ confidence. 

    The FCT Secondary Education Board endorsed and supported the programme. 

Facilitator and entrepreneur Esesua Adeyemi highlighted the power of self-discovery: 

    “We are raising girls who will not just ask for a seat at the table. They will build theirs.” 

Lasting Impact Beyond the Classroom 

Dr. Kelechi Anyikude of WRTHY noted the lasting value of such initiatives: 

    “The impact of this programme goes beyond the day. It fosters lasting connections, encourages self-belief, and sparks a movement of informed, capable, and empowered young women.”  

This initiative is more than a one-day event; it’s a foundation for a stronger future. The ICF is calling on government bodies, donors, the media, and development partners to scale up efforts in reaching more girls. When girls are empowered with information and support, they not only change their own lives—they uplift families and entire communities.