Remi Tinubu seeks end to harmful practices against widows

First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu has called for enhanced protection and support for widows, urging governments, communities, and stakeholders to eradicate harmful traditional practices that diminish their dignity. Marking International Widows’ Day 2026, the First Lady emphasized that widows deserve to live free from discrimination, poverty, and social exclusion.

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Today, on International Widows’ Day 2026, I urge us to reaffirm our support for widows across Nigeria, Africa, and the world as we reflect on this year’s theme: ‘Justice, Dignity and Economic Power for Widows – The African Perspectives.’

Reflecting on this year's theme, “Justice, Dignity and Economic Power for Widows – The African Perspectives,” Tinubu appealed for a renewed commitment to the welfare of widows across Nigeria, Africa, and the globe. She stated that widows should be shielded by laws that uphold their rights and provided with opportunities to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope. "Widows deserve to live free from discrimination, harmful practices, poverty, and exclusion," she asserted.

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Widows deserve to live free from discrimination, harmful practices, poverty, and exclusion. They must be protected by laws that uphold their rights and be empowered through education, access to opportunities, and economic support to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.

The First Lady specifically called for an end to cultural practices across the African continent that dehumanize widows. "In Africa, we must do away with harmful traditional practices that are dehumanising to widows," she urged. Tinubu stressed the importance of promoting compassion, inclusion, and policies that protect widows to foster a safer and more prosperous society. She believes that empowering widows enables them to provide for their families.

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In Africa, we must do away with harmful traditional practices that are dehumanising to widows.

Senator Tinubu extended wishes for a meaningful International Widows’ Day celebration to widows nationwide and reaffirmed her support for initiatives aimed at advancing their welfare and rights. The message highlighted the ongoing need to address systemic issues affecting widows and promote their full integration and empowerment within society.

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We must continue to promote compassion, inclusion, and policies that protect widows for a safer and more prosperous society. The society should empower widows to be able to provide for their families.