From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
First Lady of Nigeria, Aisha Buhari, has urged states First Ladies, under the auspices of Nigeria Governors Spouses Forum (NGSF), to give more support to their husbands in order to ensure delivery of good governance.
Mrs Buhari, who was represented by her Special Adviser on First Ladies Peace Mission (AFLPM), Mohammed Albishir, during the opening of the governors spouses induction summit held in Abuja, aimed at building capacities of the wives of governors of all States.
According to her, building capacities of the State Governors’ Wives is an initiative that signals a positive beginning in the history of democracy in Nigeria.
“Irrespective of our differences and experiences, our challenges should not deter our commitments to serve Nigeria better. Our “renewed hope” is a vision that requires capacity building and strategies for more impactful democratic change and inclusion. This summit is hence important in providing participants, opportunities to fine tune their collective vision for more effective democratization.
“Our commitments to democracy as wives and leaders require collective efforts to building strong foundation for democratic governance. This summit therefore provides avenue in acquiring ideals for promoting excellence and innovation in all our processes of governance.”
Mrs. Buhari appreciated the support and contributions of the Governors’ wives to the development of the country’s democracy.
“I appreciate their support especially to my Foundation: the Future Assured and the African First Ladies Peace Mission (AFLPM) which I served as the President.
“While I thank the Almighty for his blessing in the last eight years, I would like to remind the serving and incoming spouses of the Executive Governors to give more support to their husbands in order to ensure delivery of good governance.
“We should remember that our duty first, is to serve our communities and to do so, we must remain committed to the development of a new Nigeria. The call to action is to take a lead in promoting democracy and gender participation of women in politics and governance.
“I therefore urge you to translate the brilliant ideals of today’s summit and utilize it to promote women’s rights and empowerment. I must emphasis that it is important to translate our gender policy into action. Our “vision” of building a better Nigeria should start from our States and through You as we lay a foundation for greater Nigeria.
“Let us try and turn our current challenges to opportunities for creating a new Nigeria that is safe, secure and sustainable. On this note, I challenge all to remain focus, dedicated and committed to the plight of our children and the nation.
“It is through your support and dedication to helping women and the girl-child that their dreams can be actualized and potentials become realizable. It is doable and I know You can do it.”
The Chairman of Nigeria Governors Forum and Governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Tambuwal, noted that the incredible power that First Ladies possess to inspire and lead change throughout history, adding that they have been instrumental in shaping and influencing the course of the nation, using their unique positions and platforms to effect meaningful change in their communities and beyond.
Tambuwal, further noted that weather is through advocacy for important causes, the First Ladies, have worked to promote education and health initiatives, empower women and girls. “These set of First Ladies have consistently demonstrated their ability to make a difference in the lives of those around them.
“Your leadership and your unwavering commitment to the NGWF have been an inspiration to us all. You have shown us the Governors that it is possible when we work together to build a brighter future for all.”
Tambuwal further added, “To the outgoing and returning first ladies, thank you for your continued service and steadfast commitment to your respective states and to the immense support you provide to us your husbands, the governors. You have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the lives of countless individuals through your initiatives, programmes, and advocacy. Your leadership has set the stage for progress, and we eagerly anticipate the heights the next sets of first ladies would reach in the future.
“To the incoming first ladies, today marks the beginning of an incredible journey. I urge you to embrace this opportunity with open hearts and open minds. You have been given a platform to effect change, to uplift communities, and to foster unity. Your unique voices, experiences, and passions will undoubtedly shape the narrative of your time as First Ladies. Use this privilege wisely, for the power of your influence can be transformative.”
The Minister of Women Affairs, Pauline Tallen, in her remarks commended the governors or Sokoto, Gombe, Lagos, Kwara, Akwa Ibom among others for appointing women in their cabinets.
She urged returning and incoming First Ladies to take off on a good note and make women are given appointments in their states, bearing in mind they form higher percentage of those who voted for their spouses and so must be rewarded.
Others who spoke were the chairperson of the NGWF,
Mariya Aminu Tambuwal, First Lady of Kaduna and Chair Northern Governors Wives Forum, Hadiza El-Rufai, Chair Southern Governors Wives Forum, Martha Udom, and Chair, Board of Trustees, NGWF, Bisi Fayemi.