Introduction
Behind many successful families are women whose names are often forgotten nannies, house-helps who quietly shape the lives of young girls. These women, are more than domestic workers, they are mentors, protectors, and role models whose influence often rivals that of parents. Yet society rarely acknowledges their impact. We celebrate girls empowerment in schools, churches, and global campaigns, but ignore the everyday empowerment or disempowerment happening right inside our homes. Could it be that the future of young girls depends just as much on how we treat the women who care for them as on any policy or program?
The Silent Influence of Nannies, House-helps, in Girlhood
For many young girls in Lagos, a domestic worker’s presence defines daily life. Whether it’s a nanny who helps with homework, a house-help who teaches her how to cook simple meals, or a housekeeper who gently reminds her to keep her space clean, these women teach lessons that go far beyond domestic work. They model patience, responsibility, and self worth. Sadly, society often dismisses their influence as “just part of the job.” In reality, the empowerment and mental well-being of young girls are deeply tied to the women nannies, househelps, and housekeepers who guide them.
Stories from the Field: Helpers and Housekeepers as Hidden Mentors
Joyful, a nanny in Surulere, recalls teaching the girl she cared for how to read by candlelight during frequent blackouts. Today, that girl is excelling in English at secondary school, though Joyful’s name is rarely mentioned in conversations about her progress.
Funke, a housekeeper in Lekki, shared how she encouraged a shy young girl to keep a diary, which helped her express herself with confidence.
Blessing, a house-help in Ikeja, remembers late-night talks about puberty with the teenager she cared for conversations the girl felt too embarrassed to have with her mother.
These stories show that house-helps, nannies and housekeepers in Lagos do far more than chores, they become hidden mentors, shaping the emotional and personal growth of young girls.
Are Families Undervaluing domestic workers?
Here’s the uncomfortable truth, many families in Lagos depend on nannies, house-helps, and housekeepers but fail to treat them with respect or fairness. Some are underpaid, denied dignity, or dismissed as if their labor is replaceable. Yet, we still expect them to nurture, protect, and empower young girls.
The contradiction is glaring. How can we demand empowerment for our daughters while dis-empowering the women who help raise them? Recognising domestic workers as partners, not just workers is essential to building strong, confident girls.