First lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has pledged her commitment to more investment in advocacy, resource mobilisation and fostering of partnerships to close the gender gap and boost women and youth empowerment in Nigeria.

Mrs Tinubu made the pledge on Sunday while addressing the 29th General Assembly of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) in Addis Ababa.

She spoke for the first time as a member of the organisation’s steering committee.

Mrs Tinubu said that the theme of this year’s General Assembly- ‘Building on Beijing: First Ladies Championing Women’s Leadership and Rights through African Heritage,’ – is a call to reflect on Africa’s values.

“This year marks three decades since the adoption of the Beijing Declaration.

” The impact of this declaration is evident in the remarkable progress Nigerian women have made, emerging from our villages to big cities and even the world stage.

“Their contributions span across diverse fields, from education to health, science, technology, politics, music, the fashion industry, business and finance amongst others.

“In spite of this progress, we still have a lot of challenges, especially when it comes to the rights of women and children.

” We are still facing issues on health, Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), child marriage, Gender-Based Violence and Girl Child education,” she said.

The first lady said that as a positive force for change on the African continent, OAFLAD must continue to improve the lots of women by building partnerships that could fast track the implementation of its 2025-2030 strategic framework.

“As we progress with #WeAreEqualInAction, I am committed to advocacy, resource mobilisation and fostering partnerships to close the gender gap and boost women and youth empowerment in Nigeria.

“Finally, I want to assure this gathering that I will do more for Nigerian girls, women and the youth in line with OAFLAD’s Strategic Framework (2025-2030).

“I believe 2025 is the year for our continent and we must all do our part in our various countries to make us a formidable force among the comity of nations.

“We must remember that Africa’s true prosperity will be built upon the foundation of our rich history, vibrant cultures, and the strength of our people, with women and youth playing a pivotal role in shaping our future, ” she said.

Mrs Tinubu said through her Renewed Hope Initiative, she will partner with the ministry of environment to scale up environmental awareness among young people in secondary schools and higher institutions with the re-launch of the “Environment Climate Change Club.”

Other speakers at the General Assembly were Amb. Minata Cessouma, the outgoing commissioner for health, humanitarian affairs and social development, African Union Commission, and Senait Fisseha, Vice President, Global Programmes.

(NAN)