FIRST LADIES FROM ACROSS CONTINENTS MEET IN NEW YORK
…Rub Minds on Driving Real and Lasting Change
The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has joined her counterparts from across the globe to explore effective ways their leadership can positively influence a rapidly changing world.
Speaking at the 3rd Annual Global First Ladies Alliance Academy in New York, Senator Tinubu emphasized that overcoming the challenges facing vulnerable populations in Nigeria requires the adoption of innovative and sustainable solutions.
She noted that her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) has been at the forefront of efforts to empower women and youth, thereby improving the quality of life for families across the country.
“This position is quite challenging. What you do will either complement your husband or become a burden to him. So, do what you can—and do it right,” she said.
“Don’t be afraid to give your little. That little could be a life-saver for someone. Be bold in confronting your challenges. That is what we are doing, and we are beginning to see the gradual impact.”
Other First Ladies present at the meeting included Ana Dias Lourenço of Angola, Anna Hakobyan of Armenia, Rossana Briceño of Belize, Lucrecia Peinado of Guatemala, Eliza Reid of Iceland, Monica Chakwera of Malawi, Gueta Chapo of Mozambique, Maricel de Mulino of Panama, and Fatima Maada Bio of Sierra Leone, among others. Several former First Ladies were also in attendance.
The participants shared insights and experiences on a wide range of common issues such as mental health and well-being—particularly among youth—maternal health, food security, and the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence.
Dr. Cora Neumann, a Montana State Senator and founder of the Alliance, underscored the importance of First Ladies’ leadership beyond their time in office.
“Your ideas, challenges, and insights have shaped every element of this experience, and we welcome—and expect—you to continue shaping it with us,” she said.
“Together, you are setting the global standard for what it means to be an effective First Partner. Collectively, you represent the hopes and needs of millions.”
She encouraged the First Ladies to lead with empathy and purpose—what she termed “Leadership through the Heart.”
The academy, organized by the Global First Ladies Alliance in collaboration with Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, is an executive leadership training program aimed at sharpening leadership focus, enhancing office efficiency, and fostering a global leadership community.
Senator Oluremi Tinubu is expected to deliver a special address in the coming days, highlighting her transformative initiatives for children, women, and youth in Nigeria.
SIGNED:
Busola Kukoyi
SSA, Media to the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
Tuesday, 8th July 2025
