INSPIRE Will Fail Without Measurable Impact, First Lady Warns

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has warned that the newly – launched Inclusive Network for Supporting Progressive Leadership, Innovation, Reforms and Equity for Women (INSPIRE) will amount to little if it does not deliver measurable and lasting results.

Speaking on Thursday at the closing of the 2026 International Civil Service Conference (ICSF) in Abuja, Tinubu said Nigeria urgently needs institutions capable of “thinking, adapting, innovating and competing globally,” stressing that reforms must translate into real outcomes rather than ceremonial initiatives.

“I must note that the success of INSPIRE will not be measured only by today’s launch but by the impact it creates in the years ahead,” she said.

The First Lady praised the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs Didi Walson-Jack, for her reform efforts, but urged stakeholders to ensure the initiative becomes a functional platform for mentorship, collaboration and leadership development.

“Our nation needs institutions that can think, adapt, innovate, and compete globally. I urge all our stakeholders to support this initiative. Let INSPIRE become a living network of mentorship, learning, collaboration, and leadership,” she said.

Tinubu said the civil service must be built on competence, fairness and innovation, adding that inclusion must go beyond representation to meaningful participation in decision-making.

“Women continue to make significant contributions as administrators, professionals, technical officers, managers, and leaders. Many of them carry their responsibility with quiet strength, dignity, discipline, and dedication,” she said.

She linked the initiative to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, saying it aligns with national priorities on inclusion, productivity and economic transformation.

“When women are empowered, institutions become stronger, governance improves, and citizens benefit from better service delivery,” she said.

The First Lady also stressed that leadership development must begin early within the civil service system, not only at senior levels.

“A young officer who is properly mentored today may become the permanent secretary, Head of Service, Minister, or a national leader tomorrow,” she said.

She urged civil servants to embrace innovation, digital skills and integrity in public service delivery, while calling on male officers to support inclusive workplace reforms.

Tinubu also commended UN Women and other partners supporting governance and inclusion reforms, as well as the Office of the Head of Service for the INSPIRE initiative.