A Nigerian theatre director and producer, Bolanle Austen-Peters, says all girls have the potential to be great and instruments of change in spite of their circumstances.
Austen-Peters said this at the screening of “Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti,” a 2024 biopic about the life and times of Nigerian educator, women’s rights activist and mother of late Afrobeat legend, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.
The screening was organised by the U.S. Consulate-General, in collaboration with Bolanle Austen-Peters Productions, to commemorate the 2024 International Day of the Girl Child, on Wednesday in Lagos.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the International Day of the Girl Child, marked annually on Oct. 11, focuses attention on the need to address the challenges girls face and promote their empowerment.
According to Austen-Peters, the feedback on the biopic has been positive, with many saying the movie will continue to inspire girls.
“Every single child watching this biopic is a Funmilayo.
“If we are not telling these stories, you will never know that there was a formula or where to draw inspiration from.
“You will never know that women that came ahead of you 56 years ago have done great and powerful things that we need to tap into.
“We can only show you what has gone ahead of you and that the future is what you make of it.
“No matter what people tell you, no matter what situations and circumstance tell you, one person can change Nigeria and that one person can be you,” she said.
Amanda Roach Brown, Deputy Public Affairs Officer, U.S. Consulate, stressed the importance of women sticking together.
According to her, any child can greak barriers and attain great heights.
“Times have changed. There are many more opportunities for girls today, we have to continue to use them and open the door for other girls who are our sisters, friends, and then those who will come after us,” she said.
Omowunmi Dada, who played the role of Grace Eniola, urged girls to dream as big as they could, saying that their dreams would be valid.
“Use every opportunity that you have to show what you are made of to show it, and the world would come calling for your blessing,” Dada said.
Roland Obutu, who played the role of Chief Enforcer, said that young people should be determined and think less of obstacles.
He said that platforms designed for each person to shine was already available.
“Conquer your fear to become that which you have been destined to be. You might be the leader that generations after you will look up to,” Obutu said.
NAN reports that the screening was attended by over 400 secondary schoolgirls from underserved communities in Lagos and Ogun. (NAN)
