According to a report by the official Facebook page of Shehu Sani on Saturday May 2nd, 2026, former Senator of Kaduna State, Senator Shehu Sani, stirred public discourse with a strong defence of Nigeria’s present First Lady.
In a detailed post, Sani criticized Nigerians for what he described as selective outrage. He recalled past First Ladies who, according to him, remained confined to the luxuries of Aso Rock, showed little concern for the poor, or were largely absent from public engagement.
He argued that many citizens tolerated such approaches in the past but now criticize a First Lady who is “visible, accessible” and actively visiting States to support women and social causes.
Sani’s message appears aimed at reshaping public perception, suggesting that impact should be judged by visibility and grassroots engagement.
He further strengthened his argument by referencing past influential First Ladies like Victoria Gowon, Maryam Babangida, and Maryam Abacha, noting that their offices recorded tangible contributions.
Maryam Babangida, wife of former military President Ibrahim Babangida, was widely recognised for her Better Life Programme, which empowered rural women through education and economic initiatives.
Similarly, Maryam Abacha, wife of General Sani Abacha, championed the Family Support Programme and Family Economic Advancement Programme, both targeted at improving family welfare and grassroots development.
Nigeria’s First Ladies since 1999 include Stella Obasanjo (Olusegun Obasanjo), Turai Yar’Adua (Umaru Musa Yar’Adua), Patience Jonathan (Goodluck Jonathan), Aisha Buhari (Muhammadu Buhari), and the current First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu (Bola Ahmed Tinubu).
Sani’s position underscores a broader argument that even modest, consistent engagement with citizens may outweigh complete detachment from public responsibility…See More
Leave a Reply