Nigeria’s First Lady calls for women’s support in leadership, nation-building

By Kunle Sanni

Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has called on women nationwide to support one another, especially those seeking elective positions, emphasizing their essential role in nation-building.

Speaking at the APC Women National Summit and Dialogue in Abuja, themed “Empowering APC Women for Leadership and Nation Building,” Tinubu encouraged women to rally around female candidates and promote unity.

The summit attracted high-profile attendees, including the wife of Nigeria’s Vice President, the First Lady of the Gambia, members of the National Assembly, state First Ladies, deputy governors, and APC women leaders. It served as a platform to highlight the growing influence of women in politics and governance.

Reflecting on her experiences, Tinubu stressed that women are best positioned to understand and support one another.

“In this phase of nation-building, let’s focus on our potential, support one another, and work diligently to shape the future—one woman at a time,” she stated.

Tinubu called on the APC National Woman Leader and state women leaders to advocate for legislative changes that would enhance women’s representation in the National Assembly. This aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” which prioritizes creating opportunities for women.

Highlighting qualities like integrity, hard work, and compassion, Tinubu added, “A leader who cannot apologize for their wrongs is not fit to lead. When one woman succeeds, we all succeed; when one fails, we all fail.”

Ogun State Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele also spoke, praising President Tinubu’s commitment to gender equity. She noted that his efforts have inspired a new generation of female leaders, contributing to a more balanced decision-making process.

APC National Woman Leader Mary Alile Idele addressed attendees, paying tribute to historic Nigerian heroines like Queen Amina, Emotan, and Moremi. She urged women to create legacies that would positively impact future generations and the nation.