HSSI Honours Late Girls’ Parliament Speaker Sakinah Suleiman

By Atlantic Reports

The Helpline Social Support Initiative (HSSI) has dedicated its 2026 International Day of the Girl Child commemoration to Sakinah Suleiman, the former Speaker of the Voice of the Girls’ Parliament, who died on October 5, aged 21.

HSSI President, Dr Jumai Ahmadu, announced the dedication in a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday, remembering Suleiman for her advocacy for girls’ rights, education and civic participation.

Born on October 11, 2004, Suleiman would have turned 22 on this year’s International Day of the Girl Child, six days after her death.

“Suleiman reminded us what leadership rooted in compassion looks like,” Ahmadu said.

“So, we dedicate this International Day of the Girl Child to her memory, to celebrate her achievements, carry forward her mission for girls’ rights and ensure her voice continues to shape policies and lives.”

From Young Speaker to Nursing Student

Suleiman became Speaker of the Voice of the Girls’ Parliament in 2020 at the age of 16, following a manifesto presentation to her peers, parents and programme coordinators.

During her tenure, she led debates on youth welfare, mentored young female delegates and supported campaigns for better healthcare and educational opportunities for girls.

Her leadership also earned her an appointment as minister for a day in October 2020 by the then Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Dr Ramatu Aliyu.

At the time of her death, Suleiman was a fourth-year nursing student. According to the account of her life, she continued her commitment to community healthcare and youth empowerment while experiencing illness.

The statement did not disclose the nature of her illness or the cause of her death.

Continuing Her Advocacy

Ahmadu said HSSI planned to publish media tributes and launch targeted advocacy campaigns involving policymakers and healthcare professionals.

The proposed campaigns will focus on girls’ health, education and opportunities to lead, alongside the commemoration’s theme, “End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights!”

She urged governments, international donors and local communities to improve paediatric and youth medical care, help girls remain in school and create safe environments for emerging youth leaders.

Ahmadu also said Voice of the Girls’ Parliament coordinators, Mrs Jane Chinwe and Mrs Amina Omale, had visited Suleiman’s family to offer condolences.

According to her, the family expressed appreciation for the support received and gratitude for the contributions Suleiman made during her life.

HSSI encouraged supporters to honour her memory by volunteering as mentors with the parliament or supporting health and education initiatives for girls.

Through the planned tributes and campaigns, the organisation hopes to continue the work Suleiman championed: enabling girls to learn, receive care and participate in decisions that shape their futures.

Atlantic Reports: Voices. People. Facts.