From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Oluremi Tinubu, has underlined the importance of women and girls speaking up when they are sexually abused, exploited, or violated since doing so will not only enable them to get the support and healing they need, but also provide others the courage to do the same.
In a statement issued by her Media, Busola Kukoyi, the First Lady spoke at the special prayers organized by the First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr Fatima Bio in honour of survivors of sexual exploitation, abuse and violence.
Mrs. Tinubu is in Sierra Leone to participate at this year’s United Nations Day of Prevention of, and Healing from Child Exploitation, Abuse and Violence
“Women, speak up because your voice can help others. When women stand together in freedom and speak their minds, they would remember that Fatima Madda Bio walked this path”.
The Nigerian First Lady pointed out that the commemoration of the UN Day is not just a day of freedom for only Sierra Leone but Africa as a whole.
She commended the First Lady of Sierra Leone for the commitment, dedication and hard work she put into seeing that the day became a reality.
Earlier in her speech, the host, Dr. Bio, made the point that harming women and girls is cowardly and ought to be stopped by every legal and legislative action.
“As First Lady, I do not work for politics, but humanity, to give our best and we want to be remembered as those who changed the narrative in Sierra Leone”.
The President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Julius Madda Bio assured that his country remains committed to eliminating all barriers being faced by girls and women so they can actualize their potentials.
There was a recitation by school girls to drive home the point that they will no longer be instruments of sexual exploitation, abuse or violence.
Prayers were also offered for survivors.
Mrs. Tinubu will join her Angolan counterpart and their host on Saturday 18th of November to commemorate the first anniversary of the day.