African First Ladies laud Oluremi Tinubu’s advocacy for girl-child education

2026-02-15 - 18:39

By Johnbosco Agbakwuru ABUJA — Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has been honoured by the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) in recognition of her contributions to girl-child education, hygiene promotion, and maternal and child health. The recognition, presented at the 29th and 30th Ordinary General Assemblies of OAFLAD in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, also acknowledged her efforts in reducing maternal and child mortality and improving welfare for mothers and children across Nigeria. The First Lady, represented by the Wife of the Vice President, Hajiya Nana Shettima, received the honour on her behalf. OAFLAD, under its “We Are Equal” campaign, has been at the forefront of promoting gender equality, women’s economic empowerment, and education across Africa. In a statement by Kwapchi Bata Hamman, Special Assistant to the President on Media and ICT, the assembly emphasised the need for stronger collaboration among African nations to address challenges confronting women and children, particularly in conflict-affected areas. Among those who spoke at the event were Fatima Maada Bio, First Lady of Sierra Leone and Chairperson of the forum, and Lordina Mahama, First Lady of Ghana. Both commended Senator Tinubu’s sustained advocacy for women and children and her role in advancing initiatives that promote gender equity and social welfare. Speaking on OAFLAD’s mission, Dr. Bio highlighted the link between sustainable development and peace, noting that women’s rights cannot be fully realised in unstable environments. Mrs. Mahama also stressed the importance of investing in girl-child education and supporting women artisans to build sustainable livelihoods across the continent.