Girls urged to build skills and lead at Abuja conference

Women and stakeholders urged young girls to build practical skills, overcome limiting beliefs, and take leadership roles for community and national development at the Rise Up Conference 2026 in Abuja on Saturday. The event, themed "The Soft Power Woman," was organized by The Healthy African Girl Foundation and brought together students and advocates to discuss girls' education, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Founder Dr Chinekwu Oreh said limiting beliefs often prevent young women from realizing their potential. Speakers called for collective efforts to address out-of-school girls in Nigeria, noting government alone cannot solve the problem. Participants advised girls to act on ideas, develop clear business plans, and use resources like social media and artificial intelligence to create opportunities.