Outgoing Nigeria’s First Lady Demands Pension For Former First Ladies

Aisha Buhari Advocates for Post-Tenure Privileges for First Ladies, Emphasizing Their Role in National Stability

Outgoing Nigeria’s First Lady Aisha Buhari Demands Pension For Former First Ladies

In a remarkable declaration, the outgoing First Lady of Nigeria, Mrs. Aisha Buhari, called for the recognition and provision of certain privileges to be accorded to the wives of the nation’s presidents after the expiration of their husbands’ tenures. Mrs. Buhari made this demand during the launch of a book authored by Mrs. Vickie Anwuli Irabor, the President of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), titled ‘The Journey of a Military Wife’, held in the capital city of Abuja.

During her speech, the outgoing First Lady highlighted the privileges that should be extended to first ladies, including the provision of vehicles, sponsored medical treatments, and the payment of stipends, among other benefits. Mrs. Buhari emphasized that these privileges are deserved by first ladies both during their husbands’ time in office and after, stating that “when the pressure comes, nobody wants to know whether you are out of the villa or not.”

Under Nigeria’s laws, former presidents are entitled to a pension package that includes the salary of the incumbent, which they receive until their death. Mrs. Buhari justified her call for similar privileges for first ladies, stating, “I married my husband as the wife of a former president. I am going, in a few days, as the wife of a former president for the second time. They should consider us as former first ladies. They should incorporate the first ladies and give us the privileges that we deserve.”

Mrs. Buhari further emphasized that any benefits provided should not be limited only to former presidents, but should extend to the former first ladies as well. She praised Mrs. Irabor for her book, describing it as a factual and emotional work that offers valuable guidance for officers’ wives in navigating their lives.

The outgoing First Lady highlighted the significance of the book in underscoring women’s roles as agents of stability for the nation, particularly during times of insurgency and security challenges. She commended the insights and perspectives presented in the book, which she believes will help readers appreciate the unique challenges faced by military families. Additionally, Mrs. Buhari emphasized the importance of better support for military widows, a critical aspect addressed in Mrs. Irabor’s book.

In his remarks, Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State applauded Mrs. Irabor’s book, recognizing its potential to promote national development. The launch of ‘The Journey of a Military Wife’ not only provides valuable insights for military spouses but also highlights the need for greater support and recognition of their contributions to the nation.

As the outgoing First Lady, Mrs. Aisha Buhari continues to champion the cause of first ladies, advocating for their rights and privileges. Her call for post-tenure benefits reflects a broader recognition of the important roles played by first ladies in supporting their husbands and contributing to national stability. By voicing her demands at such a significant event, Mrs. Buhari has sparked an important conversation about the welfare and recognition of first ladies in Nigeria.