Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has called for a cultural shift that empowers young women to speak up and reject the societal conditioning that teaches them to accept blame and silence.
Speaking in Abuja at a mentorship session marking the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child, the Kogi Central senator emphasized the importance of self-awareness, urging girls to break free from imposed identities and pursue leadership with courage.
“Women are taught to carry shame and stay silent but that ends with us,” she said, stressing that real change begins with understanding one’s identity.
The event, themed “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead”, brought together over 50 young women for an evening of open dialogue, featuring survivor and activist Yakubu Oyiza Hope.
Attendees described the session as transformative, urging the senator to establish a structured mentorship platform.
Returning to the Senate on October 7 after a controversial six-month suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan reaffirmed her commitment to advocating for justice, equity, and community development beyond politics.
