The Youth
The term “youth” captures the vibrancy and potential of young individuals on the cusp of adulthood. Historically within the Igbo culture, one of Nigeria's predominant ethnic groups from the South-Eastern region, there has been a strong patriarchal undertone. Earlier epochs often witnessed mixed emotions surrounding the birth of a teenage girl in an Igbo family, largely due to societal preferences for male offspring. This predilection, deeply rooted in traditions surrounding inheritance norms, revered the male heir as the preserver of lineage. Unfortunately, such preferences have persisted over time, showing resilience to the transformative touch of modernity.
Written by Dr. Nkeiruka Onyia
Executive Director
Igbo teenagers, and in particular girls, play multifaceted roles within their families, societies, and educational settings. Beyond their contributions to domestic tasks and familial obligations, they actively pursue education, forge meaningful friendships, and envisage futures empowered by self-determined aspirations. However, traditional paradigms within the Igbo culture often overshadow the rights of these teenage girls. They find themselves at the intersection of age and gender-based discrimination, with youth rendering them “minors” and their female identity casting them as “females”. When layered with challenges like economic disparities, disabilities, or minority affiliations, the hurdles amplify. There's a concerning literacy gap with girls often lagging behind their male counterparts, and early marriages remain prevalent.
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Education is undeniably a linchpin of empowerment. At Enyindigbo, we staunchly advocate for the academic pursuits of teenage girls within the Igbo community. An educated girl is equipped to navigate life's myriad challenges, make informed choices, and exhibit resilience. Such an education empowers her to make discerning decisions about marriage, familial roles, and broader life trajectories.
Acknowledging the boundless potential of the Igbo youth, especially teenage girls, Enyindigbo is unwavering in its dedication to their holistic development. We focus on educational advocacy, intent on bridging literacy gaps, and encourage prolonged academic engagement over premature marital commitments. Our vigilance extends to ensuring that no youth, especially teenage girls, faces maltreatment or injustice. Through our comprehensive initiatives, we aspire for an Igbo community where every youth, irrespective of gender, is celebrated, empowered, and poised for a luminous future.
Our Youth unit is led by Ambassador Mrs Ezinne Ezechi.
