Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has urged women across the country to take greater responsibility in mentoring young girls, stressing the need to instil strong values, discipline, and a sense of modesty in the younger generation.
The first lady made the call while addressing Muslim and Christian women during an interfaith Iftar and Lent breaking of fast held in Abuja, where she emphasised that women must play a central role in guiding and shaping the character of girls, particularly those from indigenous communities, who may lack adequate support and mentorship.
Speaking at the gathering, the first lady encouraged women to intentionally invest in the lives of young girls through education, guidance and moral support, noting that mentorship could help many girls discover their potential and avoid negative influences.
According to her, women who are privileged or established in their careers should consider supporting at least one young girl, either by providing educational opportunities, offering mentorship or helping them navigate life challenges.
She said empowering girls in this manner would contribute significantly to building a better society and ensuring that the next generation grows up with the right values.
Tinubu also addressed concerns about the increasing trend of what she described as immodest dressing among young people, stressing that beauty should not be defined by outward exposure but by inner character and good conduct.
She noted that society must return to promoting values that emphasise dignity and self-respect, adding that women have a responsibility to guide young girls on proper behaviour, dressing and personal conduct.
“I’m not saying you should not look good, but nakedness is not beauty. Beauty comes from within,” she said, urging women to lead by example in their appearance and lifestyle choices.
The first lady further challenged women present at the event to deliberately mentor young girls in their communities, explaining that mentorship goes beyond financial support and includes teaching life lessons that shape character. She urged them to guide young girls on issues such as discipline, respect for others, education and self-worth, noting that such guidance could help them become responsible adults who would contribute positively to society.
According to her, teaching girls how to dress appropriately and carry themselves with dignity would help restore societal values that appear to be gradually fading.
Tinubu also used the occasion to emphasise the importance of spiritual reflection during the ongoing Ramadan and Lent seasons, describing the interfaith gathering as a symbol of unity among Nigerians regardless of religious differences.
She said the presence of Muslim and Christian women at the event demonstrated the importance of harmony and collaboration in addressing societal challenges, adding that faith leaders and community members must work together to promote peace, understanding, and national development.
During her remarks, the first lady also noted that both men and women have roles to play in promoting moral standards within society. While encouraging women to guide young girls, she expressed hope that men would also demonstrate discipline and responsibility in their conduct.
She added that the values taught within families and communities would ultimately determine the type of society Nigeria builds in the future.
The event was attended by prominent figures, including former First Lady Patience Jonathan, the wife of the Vice President, Nana Shettima, as well as wives of state governors and other senior government officials.
The gathering also featured lectures delivered by Ganiyat Adesina-Uthman of the National Open University of Nigeria and Sally Chinebedu of Dominion Church International, Abuja, who spoke on the importance of faith, moral upbringing and mentorship in shaping the lives of young people.
The speakers emphasised that strong family values, proper mentorship and faith-based guidance remain essential in raising responsible children and strengthening society. They encouraged women to use their influence within families, communities and institutions to nurture young girls and help them develop confidence, discipline and a strong sense of purpose.
Tinubu concluded by reiterating that building a better nation begins with raising responsible children and nurturing young girls with the right values. She urged women to take mentorship seriously and commit themselves to guiding the next generation, stressing that the future of the country depends largely on the moral and social foundations laid for young people today.
