A Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), Focused Parenting and Youths Initiative for Development (FoPaYID), has sought the support of Pure Biotech Company in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, to help tackle the pressing issues of early marriage and malnutrition among girls and children in the Akile Community, Makurdi Local Government Area.
FoPaYID’s Executive Director, Mrs. Sarah Ingbian, made the appeal during an advocacy visit to Pure Biotech on Friday, as part of events marking the 2024 International Day of the Girl Child. The visit aimed to raise awareness and mobilize support for addressing health, social, and cultural challenges affecting young women, girls, and children in the community.
Mrs. Ingbian expressed deep concern over the rising cases of malnutrition and early marriages in the area. She also urged the company to consider granting a scholarship to a youth from the community to attend a health training institution. This, she emphasized, would enable the beneficiary to give back by contributing to healthcare improvements in the area.
While acknowledging Pure Biotech’s previous contributions, particularly in providing water and electricity to the community, she expressed gratitude, stating that their efforts have not gone unnoticed.
In response, the General Manager of Pure Biotech, Abdulkadair Muhammed, along with the company's Legal Officer, Barr. Denen Tur, welcomed the delegation and commended FoPaYID’s efforts to address community health issues, especially those affecting young girls.
Muhammed highlighted that Pure Biotech has been actively involved in various Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects, positively impacting the community by improving access to water and electricity. He assured the delegation that their request would be forwarded to the company's higher management for consideration.
" I want to welcome you and members of your team and also commend you for this great work that you are doing. Your organisation has been active in carrying out various projects which is beneficial to the people"
The International Day of the Girl Child, celebrated on October 11, offers an opportunity to recognize the challenges that girls face around the world while emphasizing the importance of their rights and empowerment.
The United Nations established this day in 2012 highlighting the need to address issues like gender inequality, child marriage and limited access to education and healthcare.
