Group Urges National Assembly To Give Constitutional Roles To First Ladies

By Ayodele Oni

A political pressure group, Nigeria’s First Project, has called on the National Assembly to introduce and pass a bill to give constitutional roles to President, Governors and Local Governments’ Chairmen wives.

The group noted that there must be defined Constitutional roles for the office of the First Lady of Nigeria and First Ladies of the 36 States and 774 Local Government Councils.

Justifying the call, National coordinator of the group, Jonah Bonet, told journalists at a press conference in Kaduna on Monday, 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 limited to only pet projects, which are mostly seasonal, but should be empowered to carry out crucial roles especially where it will have direct impact on women across the nation.

“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 Programme, 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 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.”