The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu, has urged First Ladies and global influencers to take decisive steps in shaping the future through youth empowerment, technology, and strategic leadership.
Speaking at the Third Annual Global First Partners Academy in New York, the First Lady addressed participants on the theme, “First Partners’ Role in the World: Preparing the Youth for the Future.” She emphasized that the future must not be left to chance and called for collective action to nurture the next generation.
“Across continents, we face a common challenge of a rapidly evolving global landscape,” the First Lady said. “Whether in Lagos, London, or Los Angeles, the future is being shaped by innovation, technology, climate change, migration, and new economic models. As First Partners, we are non-partisan influencers and maternal figures. With that comes a moral responsibility to lead.”
Drawing from her background as an educator, the First Lady stressed the need to build the mental capacity of young people, instill self-belief, and provide them with platforms to thrive. She explained that this vision aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and her own Renewed Hope Initiative.
“We must not wait for the future to happen. We must create it. Preparing the youth means engaging them in the digital space, technology, and governance,” she said. “We must offer mentorships, internships, scholarships, and platforms for civic participation to support their aspirations.”
The First Lady also highlighted the unique role of First Ladies in championing causes that address the needs of women, youth, and children. She called for greater partnerships that provide holistic and long-term solutions.
Other First Ladies, university professors, and global experts participated in sessions that addressed the impact of artificial intelligence on women’s health, youth innovation, and food security. Discussions also focused on transforming polarization into inclusive growth through dialogue and collaboration.
