By Zainab Faruk
The First Lady of Bauchi State and Founder of the Al-Muhibbah Foundation, Ambassador Aisha Bala Mohammed, has restated her commitment to promoting social inclusion, women empowerment and sustainable development, as she addressed the Second World Summit for Social Development holding in Doha, Qatar.
Amb. Aisha delivered her goodwill message through a recorded video presentation, where she joined world leaders, United Nations representatives and global development partners in advocating renewed efforts toward eradicating poverty, promoting decent work, and building inclusive societies that leave no one behind.
The Chief Press Secretary to the First Lady, Hajiya Murjanatu Musa Maidawa, represented Her Excellency at the summit and led the Bauchi State delegation to the global forum.
In her message, Amb. Aisha Bala Mohammed highlighted initiatives implemented through her office and the Al-Muhibbah Foundation, especially in the areas of education, skills development and empowerment of women and youth. She described women and youth as key drivers of peace, growth and sustainable progress.
“In Bauchi State, through my office and the Al-Muhibbah Foundation, we believe that empowering women and youth is the foundation for peace and sustainable progress. Through education, skill training and social inclusion, we are giving every citizen the chance to thrive,” she said.
The First Lady called for stronger partnerships among governments, the UN system, civil society organisations and the private sector to uphold equality, human dignity and shared prosperity.
The Second World Summit for Social Development, which opened in Doha on Tuesday, is the first official United Nations General Assembly meeting to take place outside New York and Geneva. The event attracted over 40 heads of state, 170 ministers and about 14,000 participants, as the world marks 30 years since the 1995 Copenhagen Declaration and renews commitment to social progress.
Amb. Aisha, on behalf of the government and people of Bauchi State, as well as Nigerian women, expressed appreciation to the United Nations and the Government of Qatar for hosting the summit, reaffirming her resolve to prioritise humanity, social justice and inclusive development.