Ododo’s Girl-Child Novelty Football Match Raises Awareness Against Human Trafficking in Kogi Central »

The Okene Mini Stadium was vibrant on December 27, 2025, as the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Human Trafficking, Comrade Amodu Avosuahi Patience, hosted the Governor Ododo’s Kogi Central Girl-Child Novelty Football Match.

The initiative was designed to raise awareness and strengthen ongoing campaigns against human trafficking and gender-based violence, while providing a supportive platform to encourage, celebrate, and empower the girl-child, and to reaffirm her value and place in society.

The event drew notable personalities from various sectors, who attended in solidarity and demonstrated strong support for the protection and empowerment of the girl-child across Kogi State.

In her welcome address, Comrade Amodu Avosuahi Patience emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in safeguarding the girl-child and ensuring an environment where she can grow, pursue her aspirations, and thrive free from violence, abuse, and exploitation. She noted that sports remain an effective tool for engagement, confidence-building, and social advocacy.

The novelty match featured Ehi Ladies and Ebira Angels, with Ehi Ladies securing a 2–1 victory. Beyond the competition, the game was characterized by unity, sportsmanship, and a shared commitment to the cause of girl-child protection.

At the conclusion of the match, the Senior Special Assistant presented cash gifts to the players and their coaches in appreciation of their participation and dedication. She also donated a new football to each team to support their continued development. In the spirit of the Christmas season, children in the community received packs of fruit juice, adding a festive touch to the event.

The match served as a strong reminder that protecting the girl-child requires deliberate action, sustained partnerships, and active community involvement.
Comrade Amodu Avosuahi Patience expressed appreciation to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for the opportunity to serve, noting that the initiative was made possible through her appointment as Senior Special Assistant on Human Trafficking.

As efforts to combat human trafficking continue, the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Human Trafficking called on individuals, organizations, and relevant stakeholders to collaborate in the collective fight against all forms of human trafficking and gender-based violence in Kogi State.

Together, stakeholders were urged to intensify efforts to end human trafficking and ensure a safer future for the girl-child.