President Muhammadu Buhari Monday in Abuja
pledged support to the resolutions of the African First Ladies Peace Mission
(AFLPM) aimed at promoting peace and development in the continent.
Addressing the opening ceremony of the 9th
General Assembly of the AFLPM, the President also urged African
Leaders and other stakeholders to support the women in realising their core
objective of building a peaceful society.
The Nigerian leader expressed concern that
peace has become an elusive subject that affects development in many regions of
Africa.
”The activities of insurgents and bandits have led to more widespread displacement and poverty.
”It is not in doubt that women and children
are the worst affected by the breakdown of peace. Therefore, as mothers, I believe,
you are in a better position to drive the processes of peace and actions where
necessary.
”Indeed, I’m happy to know that your forum
has been working towards promoting peaceful coexistence within the continent in
so many ways,” he said.
President Buhari congratulated the Nigerian
First Lady, Dr Aisha Buhari, for acquiring a piece of land on behalf of all
First Ladies for the development of a secretariat for the Mission in Abuja.
”It gladdens my heart to know that when
completed the secretariat will serve several purposes including creating
employment opportunities as well as generating income for sustainability,” he
said.
The 9th General Assembly of the AFLPM
unanimously elected the First Lady of Nigeria as the new President.
In her acceptance speech, Dr Aisha Buhari
pledged to execute her new responsibility with total commitment, urging her
colleagues to work in unison towards a glorious destiny for Africa.
”With all sense of humility, I accept my
election as the incoming 9th President of the African First Ladies Peace
Mission.
”I want to sincerely thank all my
colleagues for your continuous support and understanding and for entrusting me
with this great responsibility.
”I pledge to execute my responsibility
with total commitment and in accordance to the Missions laid down regulations.
”Your Excellences, Gentlemen of the Press,
as you are aware, the task before us is a collective commitment hence the
cooperation of all us is needed for the overall success of the African First
Ladies Peace Mission.
”On my own part, I assure you that I will
discharge the affairs of my office with honesty, dedication and
inclusivity.
”My dear colleagues as we conclude this
Summit, let history guide us to ensure that the Africa we bequeath to our
children today is better than the one we inherited.
”Let us commit ourselves to working
together towards achieving a glorious destiny for all Africans,” she said.