Our girls remain the torchbearers of a brighter future. To celebrate their strength and potential, girls' secondary schools in the state were visited during a week-long exercise where students were sensitized and disposable sanitary pads were distributed, with spare supplies provided to school authorities for their sick bays. Commemorating the International Day of the Girl Child, an observance that reminds us that the future of our state depends on the health, confidence, and well-being of our girls, I was represented by the Executive Secretary of the Imo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ISPHCDA), Ms. Kosilisochukwu Ekenjoku, on October 10, 2025, at Akabo Girls' High School, Ikeduru LGA. The students were charged to protect their minds, take care of their health, and speak out when they need help, as there is no shame in seeking support. They were encouraged to believe in themselves, knowing that the state government is committed to supporting their dreams. My office has launched a Girls' Guidance and Counseling Initiative in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the State Primary Health Care Development Agency. This initiative provides access to trained counselors in selected schools and communities who help girls navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, abuse, and peer pressure. I sincerely appreciate the school managements, the Ministries of Health and Education, the Imo State Primary Health Care Development Agency, our partners at WHO and Ginitiative, and all stakeholders who continue to stand with us in empowering the girl child, ensuring that every girl has access to quality education, sound health, and a supportive community that allows her to flourish in mind and body.

#WorldMentalHealthDay #DayOfTheGirlChild #TheGirlIAmTheChallengeILead

#ChiomaUzodimma

H.E. Chief Barr. (Dr.) Chioma Uzodimma FIMC, CMC
First Lady of Imo State, Founder of GoodHope Women Flourish Initiative,
and Secretary of Renewed Hope Initiative.