University of Abuja Partners Guardian Girls International on Gender Empowerment

The University of Abuja has partnered with Guardian Girls International to strengthen gender empowerment, safety education and self-defence training for young women in Nigeria.

The partnership was signed during the official launch of Guardian Girls Nigeria at the Embassy of Japan in Abuja on Wednesday, October 14.

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja, Professor Hakeem Babatunde Fawehinmi, reaffirmed the University's backing for the project, noting the significant roles of universities in the initiative, including research, leadership development and creating a safer environment for young women.

The Japanese Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Suzuki Hideo, commended the initiative, emphasising the role of martial arts in instilling confidence and self-defence capabilities in girls. He said the partnership would further strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries in development cooperation, culture and sports.

Chairman of Guardian Girls International, Mr Shin Koyamada, said the initiative's objectives include combining sports and martial arts with women empowerment and prevention of gender-based violence.

Stakeholders at the event included President, Guardian Girls Nigeria, Ambassador Ruqayya Ahmed; UNFPA Country Representative, Ms Muriel Mafico; President, Nigeria Olympic Committee, Engineer Habi Gumel; and President, Guardian Girls Africa, Ms Mary Obande.