Empowering Girls’ Education in Northern Nigeria: How Traditional Leaders are Making a Difference

AGILE’s success largely comes from its collaboration with traditional leaders. Though they were initially doubtful, these leaders began to see the real benefits of education for girls in their communities. Now, they actively rally families, religious figures, and school authorities to support girls’ education. They conduct town hall meetings and visit homes to illustrate the long-term benefits of educating girls. Tijani Dawanu, a leader from the Kwa community in Kano, shares, “We held meetings with parents, encouraging them to send their daughters to school. Many listened, and now their daughters are enrolled.”

This personal outreach helps shift traditional views that keep girls confined to home duties. Instead, they promote the successes of educated women, showing how an education can uplift families and communities.

Improving School Conditions

Traditional leaders also play a critical role in enhancing school facilities. Many girls in northern Nigeria face challenges like overcrowded classrooms and poor hygiene, which can prevent them from attending school. With the School Improvement Grant (SIG) from AGILE, community leaders are taking action. For example, Alhaji Haruna, the Emir of Katsina, personally checks the progress of school renovations every week. “I make sure the classrooms and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) facilities are properly set up,” he says.

These improvements create a more inviting and secure learning environment, which helps increase the number of girls who enroll and stay in school.

Changing Mindsets

The partnership between AGILE and traditional leaders is helping to transform how society views education. The old belief that “girls belong in the kitchen” is slowly fading, with more people recognizing the importance of education for everyone.

Take Abigail Ayo, for example. Initially skeptical about school and more focused on work, she now envisions a brighter future. “I didn’t see the value of education at first. But AGILE provided us with furniture and books, making school more comfortable. Now, I take my education seriously and dream of becoming a pharmacist.”

AGILE also focuses on marginalized girls, ensuring those with disabilities and those who had to leave school can access the same opportunities. Traditional leaders are essential in this, advocating against gender-based violence (GBV) and early marriage while encouraging girls to continue their schooling.