Group Canvasses Constitutional Role For First Lady, Govs’ Wives

A political pressure group on the aegis of Nigeria’s First Project, has advocated for a defined Constitutional role for the office of the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and First Ladies of the 36 States and 774 Local Government Councils.

The group therefore urged the National Assembly to as a matter of priority introduce and pass a Bill giving constitutional recognition to the office of the First Ladies of the three tiers of government in the country.

Hon Jonah Bonet, National Coordinator of the group told journalists at a press conference in Kaduna on Monday, August 26, 2024, that by doing so, the First Ladies would be better positioned to fulfill their primary roles, which should focus on the wellbeing and advancement of women, children, and the overall development of their respective communities.

Bonet insisted that the office of the First Ladies should not be relegated for only pet projects which are mostly seasonal but should be empowered to carry out crucial roles especially where it will have direct impact on all the women across the nation.

He further said; “The impact on women in shaping the future of our children should be seen as a long-term Nigerian project.

We are therefore calling on the National Assembly to see this as a very important national project by initiating a concrete bill that will empower our First Ladies to function as they should.

“We strongly believe that the recognition of these offices is essential for the progress and prosperity of our nation. Their primary roles should focus on: Advocacy on good parenting and inculcation of good social values Humanitarian services, charitable works and social welfare enlightenment campaign against the use of hard drugs and other substances by our children and Orientation on nationalism and patriotism.

“The recent efforts of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, through the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Economic Empowerment Program, have been truly commendable. Her relentless efforts have resulted in the unveiling of a N1.85bn recapitalization grant for 37,000 beneficiaries nationwide.

“It is heartening to see that just last week in Asaba, she personally flagged off the disbursement of N50,000 each to the 37,000 women across the nation. These initiatives not only provide crucial financial support to women but also empower them to become self-sufficient and independent.

“It is imperative that these efforts receive constitutional backing and recognition, as they are truly making a positive impact on the lives of thousands of women in Nigeria.

“The First Lady’s leadership and commitment towards uplifting the lives of women deserve our utmost support and constitutional recognition. With what the First Lady has done so far, we have decided as a group to pass a vote of confidence on her and her office.

“Worthy of mention here also is the First Lady of Kaduna State, Hajiya Hafsat Uba Sani, who has been very supportive of women and children across the state and has equally been catering for cancer patients in the state. She is a true mother and this group also wishes to pass a vote of confidence on her and her office,” it said.

The group noted that the current state of Nigeria presents an array of challenges that require the support and cooperation of all its citizens.

Bonet explained that the Nigeria’s First Project is a group of passionate Nigerians who are deeply troubled by the current state of the country, stressing that the recent nationwide protest, which unfortunately turned violent with destruction of properties and looting, has left us with serious concerns.

He further said; “As patriotic citizens, we strongly believe in the Nigerian dream and want to see our country thrive”.

The group also commended security personnel particularly the military under the Chief of Defense Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa and his men who exhibited neutrality and maturity in handling the recent nationwide protest.