Nigeria’s first lady, Remi Tinubu, has stated her commitment to advocating for women’s economic empowerment.
Remi spoke after receiving the title of “Grand Patron” of the National Council for Women Societies (NCWS) at the state house in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by Busola Kukoyi, Remi’s special adviser on media, the first lady stated that women are not only beneficiaries but also integral contributors to the country’s progress and prosperity.
She stated that the NCWS has always served as a beacon of advocacy, addressing systemic issues affecting women in Nigeria.
Remi said:
“The NCWS is not new to me as I happen to have been a state patron from 1999-2007 when my husband was the Governor of Lagos State.”
“I identify with you in fostering unity, promoting equality and amplifying the voices of women across every sector of our society, including creating a more inclusive and equitable nation which echoes the ideals that we all aspire to achieve.
“As the Grand Patron I am aware of the challenges being faced by women in our society, women continue to face discrimination, violence and limited access to education, healthcare and economic opportunities.
“It is our collective responsibility to address these issues and work towards creating a society where every woman can thrive and fulfil her potential.”
The First Lady also pledged to create an enabling environment for women to thrive through the presidential renewed Hope initiative.
“I will advocate for initiatives that support women’s health, and economic empowerment, and work towards eliminating all forms of violence and discrimination against women,” she said.
Wives of state governors, wives of members of the national assembly, wives of ministers, wives of service chiefs, and members of the NCWS were among those in attendance.