…Calls for cooperation between both genders to dismantle stereotypes
The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has emphasised the need for cooperation between men and women to drive genuine progress in the nation’s governance and development sectors.
She made the call on Monday during the commissioning of the Oluremi Tinubu Gender and Public Policy Studies Centre at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Jos.
The newly inaugurated centre aims to promote gender equity and inclusive policymaking across all sectors of national life.
Speaking at the event, Senator Tinubu commended the initiative’s inclusive approach to gender issues, noting that it recognises the importance of both male and female participation in achieving equity.
“The establishment of this Gender Centre represents a bold step towards bringing gender issues to the forefront of every facet of our society towards achieving equity.
I am particularly pleased that the Centre’s approach includes both men and women, recognising that inclusion must be a shared national agenda. Actual progress will come when both genders stand as allies, working together to dismantle stereotypes, open opportunities, and strengthen our collective humanity,” she said.
The First Lady praised participants of the Senior Executive Course 45 (2023) of NIPSS for conceptualising, funding, and executing the project, describing it as a visionary contribution to national development.
“This project would not have become a reality if not for the foresight of participants of the Senior Executive Course 45 (2023), who conceived, funded, and executed what we are all seeing today. I applaud your vision and generosity. This gesture of yours will no doubt leave a lasting legacy on our nation’s policy landscape,” she stated.
She further explained that the vision of the Centre aligns with one of the key priorities of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, which seeks to harness the full potential of every citizen regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, or socio-economic status.
Senator Tinubu also expressed optimism that the Centre would foster transformative research, policy innovation, and inclusive national development.
In his goodwill message, the Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, lauded the establishment of the Gender Centre, expressing confidence that it would enrich public discourse on women’s representation in governance and policymaking. He noted that women remain pivotal to national and societal progress.
Similarly, the Chairman of the NIPSS Board and former Senate President, Senator Ken Nnamani, commended the decision to name the Centre after Senator Tinubu, describing her as a “go-getter” and an inspiration to women nationwide.
He also urged for the renovation and refurbishment of ageing structures within the institute, which will soon mark its 50th anniversary.
To support the sustainability and expansion of the Centre’s activities, the First Lady announced a donation of ₦250 million to the institution.
