Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called for stronger protection and support for widows, urging society to eliminate harmful practices that subject them to discrimination and hardship.
The appeal was made as the world marked International Widows’ Day 2026, with the First Lady emphasizing the need for justice, dignity and economic empowerment for widows.
Speaking on this year’s theme, “Justice, Dignity and Economic Power for Widows – The African Perspectives,” Tinubu said widows deserve respect, equal opportunities and protection from practices that violate their rights.
“Widows deserve to live free from discrimination, harmful practices, poverty, and exclusion.”
She stressed that governments, communities and stakeholders must work together to ensure widows are protected by laws and given access to education, economic opportunities and social support.
According to her, empowering widows would not only improve their lives but also strengthen families and communities.
The First Lady also called for an end to cultural traditions that dehumanise widows across Africa, describing such practices as unacceptable in modern society.
“In Africa, we must do away with harmful traditional practices that are dehumanising to widows.”
She further urged policymakers to promote inclusion and implement measures that help widows rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.
Tinubu reaffirmed her support for initiatives focused on improving the welfare and rights of widows while wishing them a meaningful International Widows’ Day celebration.
Source: Office of the First Lady
