By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwuil, Uyo
AKWA-IBOM: The Queen Mother’s Empowerment Foundation (QMEF) has reiterated its commitment to girls’ education, empowerment, and protection by actively participating in the 9th edition of the Girls, Uphold Your Dignity summit, organized by the Family Empowerment and Youth Reorientation Path Initiative (FEYReP) in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
The summit, a flagship initiative of Dr. Martha Udom Emmanuel, former First Lady of Akwa Ibom, brought together key stakeholders, experts, and young girls to discuss pressing issues affecting girls’ rights and dignity.
Discussions centered on gender-based violence, parental responsibility, teenage pregnancy, and the growing trend of young girls engaging in casual relationships without structured family support.
Speaking at the event, experts warned against the increasing influence of celebrity culture, where young girls idolize public figures and engage in reckless behaviors, including the rising phenomenon of teenage mothers. “Many girls are lured into unhealthy lifestyles by what they see on social media, believing motherhood without a stable home is fashionable. We must change this narrative through education and proper mentorship,” said a keynote speaker at the summit.
Concerns were also raised about the neglect of parental responsibilities, with many children being left in the care of grandparents, exposing them to potential exploitation. The summit underscored the vital role of parental guidance, using the story of renowned neurosurgeon Dr. Ben Carson as an example of how proper upbringing, even in difficult circumstances, can shape a child’s future.
Another key topic was the alarming HIV prevalence in Akwa Ibom, which remains one of the highest in Nigeria. Statistics revealed that over 8,000 adolescents aged 10–29 are living with the virus, with risky sexual behaviors such as casual sex and sharing of sharp objects among students contributing to the spread. “We need to teach young girls about safe choices and the importance of self-discipline. Abstinence and proper education remain the best protection,” a health expert stated.
Participants were urged to prioritize education, skill acquisition, and self-reliance over early sexual activity, as statistics presented at the summit showed that over 21 million adolescent girls become pregnant each year, with Sub-Saharan Africa accounting for 6 million cases. “We must break this cycle by ensuring girls have access to education and economic opportunities,” said a QMEF representative.
For QMEF, the summit served as a platform to strengthen collaboration with sister NGOs and reaffirm its advocacy for girls’ rights. “We are committed to confronting the challenges young girls face and driving initiatives that empower them to reach their full potential. Every girl deserves a chance to succeed,” the foundation stated.