First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called for concerted global efforts to equip young people for the challenges of an increasingly complex and fast-changing world. She made the appeal during her address at the Third Annual Global First Partners Academy held in New York.
Speaking on Day 2 of the high-level event themed “First Partners’ Role in the World: Preparing the Youth for the Future”, Mrs. Tinubu addressed a gathering of First Ladies, scholars, and international policymakers.
According to a statement issued by her Senior Special Assistant on Media, Busola Kukoyi, the First Lady highlighted that global societies, regardless of location—from Lagos to London to Los Angeles—face similar challenges driven by rapid advancements in technology, shifting economic models, climate change, and global migration patterns.
“We must not wait passively for the future to arrive. We must take deliberate steps to shape it. Across continents, the landscape is evolving quickly, and our youth must be prepared for what lies ahead,” she stated.
Mrs. Tinubu emphasized the often underutilized influence of First Ladies globally, describing them as “non-partisan influencers, public advocates, and maternal figures” who hold both the opportunity and responsibility to lead by example.
Reflecting on her background in education, the First Lady praised the creativity, resilience, and drive of Nigerian youth.
“Our young people are innovative, hardworking, and determined. What they need is meaningful engagement, belief in their potential, and the right environment to succeed,” she noted.
Her remarks echoed the priorities of the Renewed Hope Agenda led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as well as her own Renewed Hope Initiative, which focuses on education, mentorship, and empowerment for the nation's youth.
Mrs. Tinubu’s call adds to growing international advocacy for youth-focused policies and investments, especially in the face of mounting global uncertainties.
