Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has said that the nation’s growth and development depend on both men and women working together to break stereotypes, create opportunities, and promote shared humanity.
Speaking on Tuesday at the inauguration of the Senator Oluremi Tinubu Gender Centre of Excellence at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Plateau State, Mrs Tinubu emphasized that gender equality is fundamental to the success of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
> “The vision of this centre aligns with one of the key priorities of the Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to harness the full potential of all citizens regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, or economic status,” she said.
The First Lady noted that the Centre’s objectives are consistent with Nigeria’s National Gender Policy 2026, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 5 and 16, and the African Union Agenda 2063.
> “When women are empowered, the whole society prospers. I am particularly pleased that this centre’s approach includes both men and women, recognising that inclusion must be a shared national agenda,” she added.
Mrs Tinubu urged scholars, policymakers, and leaders to make the new Centre “a hub of ideas and action” where empathy and innovation would guide the formulation of gender-responsive policies.
Expressing appreciation to the NIPSS management and the participants of Senior Executive Course 45 (2023) for conceiving and funding the project, she said:
> “I am humbled by your decision to name this Gender Centre after me. May it stand as a lasting symbol of our collective resolve to build a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.”
In his remarks, Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State praised the initiative and reiterated his commitment to gender inclusion in governance.
He urged the First Lady to use her influence to encourage the National Assembly to pass the bill seeking special seats for women in the National and State Houses of Assembly.
> “I have monitored developments in the National Assembly, and the proposal for special seats is currently wobbly. Adding your voice will bring pressure to bear on lawmakers to make it happen,” Mutfwang said.
He also stressed that men must be active participants in gender advocacy, stating that meaningful change requires joint responsibility.
> “Gender issues are not just about women. If men are not included in the conversation, we will continue to suffer setbacks. Since assuming office, I have brought women into key decision-making positions — and we’ve seen the benefits,” he added.
Ken Nnamani, Chairman of the NIPSS Board, called for the decentralization of the institute’s short courses to other geopolitical zones to enhance access and participation.
> “We already have one centre in the Southwest, and Kuru will remain the epicentre for senior and executive courses. The goal is to make it easier for Nigerians to attend without the hazards of long-distance travel,” Nnamani said.
The newly inaugurated Senator Oluremi Tinubu Gender Centre of Excellence is expected to serve as a catalyst for gender inclusion, policy innovation, and women’s empowerment — furthering the government’s vision for a more equitable and prosperous Nigeria.
