Today, history was made on the floor of the House of Representatives when the speaker symbolically allowed a 16-year-old advocate, Ms. Isabel Anani, to preside over the plenary session, enabling her to conduct the session, the first of its kind in the history of the House of Representatives.
It was part of the celebration for this year’s International Day for the Girl Child. Women’s inclusion and participation in governance is at the heart of the 10th House Legislative Agenda.
Before yielding his seat, the speaker shared a message of hope with the House: Honourable Members, on this October 10th, we stand in solidarity with the global community, recognizing the challenges girls face while honouring their resilience, creativity, and capacity to shape a brighter, more equitable world.
The House was delighted to introduce Ms Isabel Anani, our ‘Speaker for the Day,’ an exceptional young leader and dedicated champion of girls’ empowerment.
As a pioneering voice on Nigeria’s Technical Working Group for Adolescent Health and Wellbeing and UNICEF Young Influencer, Isabel’s passion ignites positive change. Selected through a rigorous nationwide search, Isabel’s leadership exemplifies the power of youth.
As she shadows the Rt. Hon. Speaker today, her remarkable journey will undoubtedly inspire. Let us recognize Isabel’s achievement and celebrate the unwavering spirit of Nigerian girls who courageously pursue their dreams despite adversity.
The speaker said it is our way of encouraging tomorrow’s leaders. He believe the young ones need mentoring as they prepare to take the mantle of leadership from his generation.