The Federal Government has honoured Abibat Mogaji, the late mother of President Bola Tinubu, by naming the ICT block at the Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development (MBNCWD) in Abuja after her.
This tribute took place during a ceremony on Tuesday attended by dignitaries and women leaders.
The event, led by Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, was a celebration of Mogaji’s life and her work as a fierce advocate for women’s rights.
Describing Mogaji as a “resilient matriarch” and a “mother,” Sulaiman-Ibrahim praised her as a symbol of strength.
“She was a testament to the relentless pursuit of her unwavering commitment to the upliftment of women,” the Minister said.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim highlighted Mogaji’s passion for building an inclusive society, saying, “We are gathered here to celebrate and honor the remarkable values of gender inclusion, women empowerment, and humanitarian services rendered by the Late Chief Alhaja Abibat Mogaji.”
The Minister stressed that Mogaji’s legacy should inspire others to continue the struggle for women’s rights and equality.
“As we unveil the new name of the ICT block, let it be a symbol of our pledge to strive harder for the rights of women, to honor their contributions to our country,” she declared.
The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, sent a message through her representative, Hajiya Nana Shettima, underscoring the importance of technology for women’s empowerment.
“Access to information and communication technology is no longer a luxury but a necessity,” she said.
She noted that technology has become essential in helping women access opportunities, overcome barriers, and realize their potential.
Dr. Asabe Vilita-Bashir, Director General of the MBNCWD, also spoke about Mogaji’s contributions to women’s empowerment and grassroots development.
She said the ICT block would be a “constant reminder of the need for inclusivity in our programmes and plans.”
According to Vilita-Bashir, Mogaji’s work paved the way for many women to gain economic independence and respect in society.
The ceremony also saw remarks from Mrs. Felicia Sani, President of the Nigeria Market Women Association, who described Mogaji as a “great mobiliser” and a true leader.
Sani urged the government to build more international markets nationwide to support women traders and boost the economy.
“Women are the backbone of our markets,” Sani stated.
“This initiative would empower women and generate revenue for the country.”
Abibat Mogaji, who passed away in 2013, was known for her tireless work advocating for women’s rights and economic empowerment.
As the President-General of the Nigeria Market Women Association, she was a key figure in pushing for better conditions for female traders.
Mogaji’s legacy as a champion for the underrepresented continues to inspire many Nigerian women leaders.
In her lifetime, Mogaji received numerous awards for her efforts in women’s empowerment and grassroots development.
She was widely respected for her dedication to social justice and her vision of a Nigeria where women could achieve their full potential.
The new ICT block, now named in her honor, stands as a testament to her lifelong work and the progress she fought to achieve.
For many, the gesture by the Federal Government is a powerful acknowledgment of Mogaji’s lasting impact on Nigerian society.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim concluded her remarks by calling on Nigerians to follow Mogaji’s example of compassion and commitment.
“We must build a society where every woman and child can fulfill their potential with dignity and pride,” she said.
