Oluremi Tinubu: Women in leadership must lift others through mentorship

Oluremi Tinubu, the first lady, says women in leadership positions should do more to empower and mentor others.

Tinubu spoke in Abuja on Friday when members of the Forum of Female Chief Executive Officers of Government Agencies and Organisations paid her a visit at the State House.

She described the CEOs as “trailblazers” who must replicate themselves in younger women.

“Birth yourselves in others. Look for them to mentor them. Replicate yourself in other women, and that is the way we would be strong,” the first lady said.

“Make yourselves unforgettable by the things you do outside your office.”

She reminded members of the forum of the contributions of matriarchs such as the late Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, Margaret Ekpo, Gambo Sawaba and Abibat Mogaji, noting that they united and spoke up for women when necessary.

“We have to come together, better and stronger than them. We have to ensure that we make life easier for women. Mentor young women, give scholarships, and take one person through life. Don’t look for the volume,” she added.

Tinubu also reinforced her call for partnership in completing the National Library, noting that the project would support indigent students in their educational pursuits.

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, director-general of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), said the CEOs are committed to good governance and service to the people.

“As a group, your excellency, we do not take our mandates lightly and are sincerely grateful to his excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for deeming us fit and proper to hold our respective offices, and that is why we are here to pledge our support to the administration and to you as the first lady of the nation,” Dabiri-Erewa said.

“We commend your renewed hope initiatives. Your dedication to women’s empowerment is truly inspiring. Your efforts at women’s inclusion and ensuring women’s voices are heard are noteworthy.

“Your support for women’s rights and gender equity, and initiatives that uplift women. As a group and also as individuals, we affirm our commitment and unflinching support for your initiatives.”

She added that the CEOs will continue to work with the first lady’s office to promote unity among women, drive progress and implement initiatives that advance national development.

“We pledge our solidarity and support for the Renewed Hope agenda of Mr President, and we will assiduously work for his success in the 2027 election,” she said.

Twenty-four female CEOs of government agencies and organisations were part of the visit.