THESHIELD Garkuwa
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By; Imrana Abdullahi
First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, has renamed the main auditorium of Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development after Dr Maryam Abacha, Wife of former Military Head of State, late Gen. Sani Abacha.
The hall, formerly known as African Peace Mission Hall, was unveiled by the First Lady and renamed after Mrs Abacha in recognition of her strong advocacy for peace across the African continent.
In her keynote address, the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu said the occasion was a significant milestone in the collaborative efforts in strengthening connections and solidifying the progress in achieving unity and lasting relationships among women.
She described Maryam Abacha as a woman of remarkable character and an unyielding dedication to the advancement of the entire African continent.
“Her advocacy led to the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs with a woman appointed as cabinet minister, this was replicated in various states and expanded the visibility of Nigerian women.
“Recently during the renaming of this centre, I emphasised for women to bridge gaps, exhibit exemplary conduct and focus beyond our differences as the unity among us as women is more important. This event is significant as it forms a major step toward establishing a lasting legacy of peace within our nation.
“In our journey towards harmony and prosperity, it is essential we recognise and pay tribute to those individuals who played pivotal roles in advancing peace and stability”.
The First Lady’s submission resonated with the thoughts of other speakers, including the Director General of the centre, Mrs Asabe Vilita Bashir and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs, Mrs Monilola Udoh.
They both celebrated the emerging power of women in the cause of national reconstruction.
In her remarks, Dr Maryam Abacha prayed for the country and the present administration led by President Bola Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima to be successful.
She acknowledged that most of the women in power are well-educated and advised them to seize the opportunity to impact the nation.
She was optimistic that First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu would perform better.
She also advised that all women should be encouraged to become useful and relevant for national development.
“I want to plead with you all that no woman should be left behind in responsibilities. I am glad that I am party to the establishment of this centre and I thank the First Lady and the centre for finding me worthy to put my name in the edifice like this”.
“I will get some of our interviews and activities together in documents for history and to encourage you to become better than us because, during our time, most of us were not graduates. We tried our best and left the rest but now we have those who are well educated and enlightened who will take Nigerians to the best of places for women.”
The occasion became another chapter in the growing narrative of peace and solidarity among women.
