Former Minister Dame Pauline Tallen Mourns Late FPMB

Former Honourable Minister of Women Affairs Dame Pauline Tallen CON, KSG has expressed profound sadness over the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR

In a statement personally signed by the former minister describes the late Gen Buhari as a rare statesman; disciplined, principled, and wholly committed to the service of Nigeria.

She says his legacy will be remembered not only for his unwavering integrity and selfless leadership, but also for the bold and historic strides made under his administration to uplift women, children, and vulnerable groups across the country.

“As one who had the honour of serving in his cabinet as the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, I witnessed firsthand the depth of his compassion, the firmness of his convictions, and the sincerity of his resolve to build a more just and inclusive society. His administration made history when, in the wake of rising cases of sexual and gender-based violence during the COVID-19 lockdown, he declared a State of Emergency on Gender-Based Violence; a courageous and unprecedented move that placed the protection of women and girls firmly on the national agenda.”

“Through his visionary support, we launched the Nigeria for Women Project, one of the most transformative initiatives for women’s economic empowerment in Nigeria’s history. His administration endorsed the development of the country’s first-ever National Women Economic Empowerment (WEE) Policy, and established the High-Level Advisory Council on Women and Girls, reinforcing institutional attention to gender equity at the highest levels.”

“Beyond programmes and policies, President Buhari gave Nigerian women a lasting symbol of pride and national visibility through the completion and commissioning of a befitting Headquarters Complex for the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs in Abuja. This iconic structure today stands as a testament to his commitment to making women visible not just in policy but in the very heart of national governance.”

“Today, I mourn not only a former President but a father figure, a moral compass, and a symbol of disciplined and focused leadership. My thoughts and prayers are with his beloved wife, Her Excellency Aisha Buhari, their children, the entire family, and indeed all Nigerians who feel this deep and irreplaceable loss.”

“May Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings, accept his noble deeds, and grant him Aljannah Firdaus.”

Former president Buhari died on Sunday at a London Clinic at the age of 82

Shakira Alabi