FAME Foundation Awards Scholarships to 10 Girls, Earns Praise from Shettima’s Wife
Folalumi Alaran in Abuja
The Vice President’s wife, Nana Kashim Shettima, commends FAME Foundation for its outstanding commitment to empowering women and the girl child during the 2024 International Women’s Football Tournament in Abuja, held in celebration of International Women’s Day with the theme ‘Count HER In: Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress.’
Represented by Bilikisu Abubakar Kyari, the Wife of the Minister of Agriculture, Shettima acknowledged FAME Foundation’s significant contributions to promoting the social, emotional, and economic well-being of women and girls nationwide. She highlighted the organization’s impactful programs that encourage women’s participation in societal growth, emphasizing the need to bridge the gender gap.
Shettima praised FAME Foundation for fostering partnerships with various women organizations, market women, NGOs, and notable entities like the British High Commission, US Embassy in Nigeria, and the Nigerian Army. She emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors to empower women and develop programs supporting the girl-child’s educational and skill acquisition endeavors.
Executive Director of FAME Foundation, Ms. Aderonke Ogunleye, revealed that 10 girls from low and middle-income families would receive scholarships for further education. The tournament, now in its 5th edition, aligns with the global celebration of International Women’s Day, dedicated to recognizing women’s achievements, promoting gender equality, and empowering women worldwide.
Featuring 10 teams, including the USA, British High Commission, Canada, FIDA, East Africa Communities, FAME, AWITA, Association of Women in Trade and Agriculture, ANFS, ASHWAN, and Bet9JA, this year’s tournament stands out as a prominent event bringing together women from diverse sectors.
The football match also featured essential healthcare services, such as screenings for cervical cancer, pap smear tests, hepatitis screenings, breast examinations, HIV tests, counseling, and eye tests provided by the Planned Parenthood Federation of Nigeria. EVA Nigeria distributed free male and female condoms to prevent STIs and promote family planning.
Ms. Ogunleye highlighted additional attractions, including cheerleaders, mascots, and educational sessions aligning with the SDGs’ Vision 2030, emphasizing the acceleration of progress for women. FAME Foundation remains committed to its mission, fostering empowerment and development for women and girls across Nigeria.
