Seventeen-year-old Joy Ogah made history by symbolically stepping into the office of Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, for an entire day on Monday, marking a rare moment of youth representation at the highest levels of government.
The initiative, organized in collaboration with PLAN International, was designed to give young people, especially girls, a platform to voice their concerns, advocate for policy changes, and actively participate in shaping national decisions affecting their futures. Ogah’s appointment for the day was part of a wider campaign to highlight the importance of youth engagement, gender equality, and education reform across Nigeria.
Highlighting Education Gaps
During her brief tenure as Vice President, Ogah emphasized the urgent need to address Nigeria’s education crisis. She noted that over 10.5 million children remain out of school, with girls accounting for more than 60 percent of this figure. She passionately called on policymakers to prioritize inclusive, safe, and quality education for all, stressing that every girl deserves access to classrooms, dignity, and opportunity.
Ogah also drew attention to barriers such as poverty, cultural constraints, and inadequate school facilities that prevent girls from fully participating in education. She encouraged government officials to implement programs that directly target these challenges, ensuring that girls receive the support necessary to complete their schooling without interruption or discrimination.
Support from Vice President Shettima
Vice President Shettima welcomed Ogah’s advocacy, commending her for raising critical issues affecting the youth. He reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to advancing girl-child education and promoting inclusive learning opportunities. Additionally, he pledged continued engagement with NGOs and youth-led initiatives, emphasizing the administration’s readiness to implement practical solutions based on the recommendations put forward by Ogah during her symbolic vice-presidency.
Health, Sanitation, and Basic Amenities in Schools
Beyond education, Ogah highlighted the need for improved health and basic amenities in schools. She called for access to free sanitary products, clean water, proper sanitation, and adequate nutrition, noting that these essential resources are critical for enabling girls to participate fully in learning. She emphasized that addressing these fundamental needs would reduce dropout rates among girls and create an environment conducive to academic success.
Ogah stated, “When girls are protected, peace becomes possible,” urging that these concerns be integrated into national policies, school programs, and community initiatives. The Office of the Vice President acknowledged her recommendations and committed to working with relevant ministries, including Education, Health, and Women Affairs, to ensure the practical implementation of solutions that support youth development and gender equality.
Alignment with Ongoing National Initiatives
Ogah’s symbolic role complements ongoing federal programs aimed at empowering youth and women across Nigeria. Initiatives such as the Renewed Hope Social Impact Interventions target over 10 million women nationwide, providing livelihood grants, digital skills training, and access to clean energy. Her advocacy also aligns with gender-inclusive policies promoted by the Ministry of Education and National Assembly, including mentorship schemes, awareness campaigns, and sensitization programs designed to remove gender bias in schools and communities.
Through her one-day vice presidency, Joy Ogah showcased the importance of youth involvement in policy discussions, illustrating how young voices can influence decision-making processes and contribute meaningfully to societal development. Her tenure underscored the need for sustained engagement with young leaders, highlighting that investing in the education and welfare of girls today is crucial for building a more equitable and prosperous Nigeria tomorrow.
The symbolic appointment of Ogah as Vice President serves as an inspiration to other young Nigerians, demonstrating that age is not a barrier to leadership, advocacy, and making a tangible impact in national affairs. It also sends a strong message to policymakers, civil society, and the international community about Nigeria’s commitment to youth empowerment, gender equality, and sustainable development.