By Prosper Mene
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called on women to actively mentor young girls, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, while emphasizing the importance of teaching modesty and decent dressing.
Speaking at an interfaith event in Abuja on March 6, 2026, which brought together Muslim and Christian women for an Iftar and Lent breaking-of-fast gathering, the First Lady urged women to intentionally guide the younger generation in moral and cultural values. She highlighted the need to go beyond academic support, encouraging scholarships, good virtues, and proper conduct.
“Teach them how to be good women, teach them how to dress well,” she said, expressing concern over current trends among young people. “Teach them how to cover up because being naked is not beauty. Beauty comes from within.”
She stressed that true beauty is not defined by revealing clothing and that modesty aligns with Nigerian cultural values, rejecting what she described as excessive exposure influenced by foreign trends. In her remarks, she also noted the role of personal responsibility, adding a prayer that “God will help men crucify their eyes” to complement efforts toward decent dressing.
The comments, captured in a widely circulated video clip from the eventย have kick started discussions across social media and news platforms about youth mentorship, cultural identity, and fashion choices in Nigeria.
This is not the first time the First Lady has addressed modest dressing; similar themes appeared in her public statements in previous years, including calls to preserve cultural norms against provocative attire.
The interfaith event focuses on unity across religious lines, with the First Lady using the occasion to advocate for collective responsibility in nurturing future generations.
