Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has called for greater empowerment of women and girls, describing it as a strategic investment necessary for the country’s future development.
Mrs Tinubu made the call on Sunday, March 8, in a message commemorating International Women’s Day 2026, joining millions across Nigeria and around the world to celebrate the achievements and resilience of women.
In a message shared via her X account, the First Lady praised the strength, courage and contributions of women in various sectors of society.
“Today, on International Women’s Day 2026, I join millions of Nigerians and the global community in celebrating the strength, courage, tenacity and achievements of women and girls across Nigeria and around the world,” she wrote.
Highlighting this year’s theme, “Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls,” Mrs Tinubu stressed that empowering women should not be viewed merely as an act of charity but as a deliberate strategy for building a stronger nation.
According to her, providing women with access to education, healthcare, economic opportunities and leadership platforms would strengthen families and communities while fostering national progress.
“When we give women access to education, healthcare, economic empowerment, leadership platforms, justice and equity, we gain stronger families, more prosperous communities and a more inclusive nation,” she said, adding that “when women rise, Nigeria rises.”
Also lending her voice to the occasion, the First Lady of Ondo State, Seun Aiyedatiwa, encouraged women to continue supporting and uplifting one another.
In a message shared on her Facebook page, Aiyedatiwa highlighted the importance of mentorship, collaboration and acts of support in creating opportunities for future generations.
Speaking on the theme “Give to Gain,” she said empowering others through knowledge, time and encouragement could have lasting benefits for individuals and society.
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“This year’s theme reminds us of a powerful truth: when we give our time, knowledge, support and love to uplift others, we create opportunities not only for them but for ourselves and for generations to come,” she said.
Aiyedatiwa also commended women in Ondo State for their resilience and contributions across multiple sectors, including agriculture, education, entrepreneurship and public service.
“From our markets to our farms, classrooms to boardrooms, and public service to entrepreneurship, you continue to shape the future with courage and determination,” she noted.
She further urged women to mentor younger generations and support one another’s ambitions, emphasising that collective empowerment would strengthen families, communities and the broader society.
Both First Ladies concluded their messages by celebrating women of all ages and backgrounds, reaffirming the crucial role women play in shaping Nigeria’s present and future.