Deputy Secretary-General Salutes Nigeria’s First Lady for Modelling Women’s Leadership, at Launch of Her Biography ‘Aisha Buhari:  Being Different’

Following is the text of UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed’s video message at the presentation of the book Aisha Buhari:  Being Different and the Summit on the Emerging Trend on the Role of the First Lady in National Development, today:

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

It gives me great pleasure to congratulate Her Excellency Ms. Aisha Buhari on the presentation of her biography, Aisha Buhari:  Being Different by Dr. Hajo Sani.  Her story is an inspiration to women in Nigeria and beyond.

The roles and contributions of First Ladies in nation-building and development have evolved over the years.  We have seen spouses moving beyond accompanying their partners’ political ambitions to championing significant development programmes, targeting those furthest behind and bringing attention to issues that otherwise would not have received visibility.

We commend Her Excellency Aisha Buhari for modelling women’s leadership for young women and girls in their countries and around the world.  In sharing her story of being a humanitarian and a global leader, a wife and a mother, with a passion for speaking out against inequality, she demonstrates the value of public service and personal sacrifice.

While focused on her role as First Lady, the real message is that each of us in our roles can use our power to influence change and empower others, especially the most vulnerable.  I commend Dr. Hajo Sani for shaping this legacy product and for her leadership.

Finally, the world today needs more women leaders with vision and the courage to lead.  I commend H.E. Aisha Buhari for her lifelong work to promote good governance, the rule of law, sustainable development and gender equality.

Thank you.