Group looks to support young women through education, skills

A non-governmental organization (NGO), Better Girls Empowerment Initiative, is aiming to help young Nigerian women aged 18 to 25 by assisting them through education, providing skills and mental health support.

According to a statement by the group, the initiative was born out of the need to bridge the gap of access to quality education in a society where many young women, especially those from underserved communities, were denied.

“The average young Nigerian woman navigating adulthood does so in an environment lacking structure, support, and the infrastructure required to succeed. Our mission is simple; to support them on their journey to becoming better versions of themselves,” said Adebimpe-Susan Kujero, chairperson of Better Girls Empowerment Initiative.

The NGO believes the journey itself is the goal – continuous growth, development, and transformation. Through its revamped programs, the Initiative will provide:

The group will be involved in practical skills development, life coaching, and mentorship programs to equip young women with the hard and soft skills they need to succeed beyond the classroom.

It will also be involved in educational support, including tuition assistance for young women pursuing higher education, with a special focus on those from less privileged backgrounds as well as providing free mental health counselling to make mental healthcare accessible for young women, particularly those affected by socio-economic hardship.

Study shows that 65 percent of young women aged 18 to 21 from underdeveloped communities in Nigeria struggle with low aspirations, often focusing on basic survival rather than building careers, businesses, or self-worth. Through the Better Girls Empowerment Initiative, these young women will gain access to the resources, community, and support systems they need to dream bigger and achieve more.

Its vision is to raise a generation of empowered young women who are confident, capable, and equipped to thrive in every area of life, while its mission is to support young African girls on their journey to becoming better by providing access to mental health support, skills development, and educational opportunities in a safe, empowering community.

“The Better Girls Empowerment Initiative invites stakeholders, development partners, and the wider community to join in fostering lasting change, because when young women grow, society thrives,” it said.