In a significant ceremony held at the Ladi Lawal Press Center in Ikeja, Lagos, Dr. Adeola Ekine, Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) Lagos State Chapter, was decorated as a Matron of the Nigeria Girl Guides Association. This event marked a milestone in the organization’s history, underscoring its commitment to empowering young women.
The State Commissioner for the Nigerian Girl Guides Association, Mrs. Akingbesote Caroline Modupe, welcomed Dr. Ekine with high praise. “The Nigeria Girl Guides Association is honored to welcome Dr. Ekine as a Matron, recognizing her as a role model and advocate for young girls across the nation,” Modupe stated in her address.
The event drew an array of dignitaries, members of the Girl Guides Association, and representatives from the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and NAWOJ, alongside various stakeholders from the media and civil society. Notable figures, including Mrs. Alli-Balogun, wife of the Lagos State Honorable Commissioner for Education and Basic Studies; Mrs. Ronke Azeez, Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board (LASTVEB); and Hon. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, Lagos State Honorable Commissioner for Education and Basic Studies, were also decorated as matrons.
In her acceptance speech, Dr. Ekine expressed her gratitude for the honor, emphasizing her commitment to the Girl Guides’ mission. “NAWOJ’s primary role is advocating for the rights of the girl child. Guiding and mentoring members of the Girl Guides Association will be an additional responsibility and duty,” she affirmed.
Ekine’s leadership and experience are expected to be instrumental in advancing initiatives aimed at building confidence, skills, and a sense of responsibility among young girls. Her involvement is anticipated to inspire and empower the next generation of female leaders in Nigeria.
The Nigeria Girl Guides Association, with over a century of history, has continually worked towards the empowerment of girls and young women through various programs and activities. The support from prominent figures like Dr. Ekine is seen as a boost to the association’s efforts to expand its reach and impact, ensuring more girls benefit from its educational and developmental opportunities.