Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has launched the Inclusive Network for Supporting Progressive Leadership, Innovation, Reforms and Equity for Women (INSPIRE),

describing the initiative as a major step toward strengthening inclusion, mentorship and leadership development for women in the Nigerian Civil Service.

Speaking at the launch during the International Civil Service Conference (ICSC) 2026 in Abuja, Mrs. Tinubu praised the initiative as a strategic platform aimed at building a more inclusive, innovative, and efficient public service system.

She also commended the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Esther Walson-Jack, for championing reforms and promoting inclusive leadership within the civil service.

According to the First Lady, INSPIRE is designed to support workers, reward competence, promote fairness, encourage innovation, and provide opportunities for professional growth across all cadres of the service.

She noted that women have continued to play critical roles in Nigeria’s development as administrators, managers, professionals, technical officers, and leaders, often carrying out their duties with commitment and integrity.

Mrs. Tinubu, however, stressed the need to create more opportunities for women to participate in decision-making processes and contribute more effectively to governance within the public sector.

She said the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritises inclusion, productivity, economic growth and national transformation.

“When women are empowered, institutions become stronger, governance improves, and citizens benefit from better services. That is why initiatives like INSPIRE are not only important for women, but are also vital for national progress,” she stated.

The First Lady expressed delight that the programme was structured to benefit women across different levels of the civil service, from junior officers to senior executives, stressing that leadership development should begin early in a worker’s career.

“A young officer who is properly mentored today may become a Permanent Secretary, Head of Service, Minister, or national leader tomorrow,” she added.

She urged female civil servants to continue striving for excellence, embrace innovation and digital skills, invest in self-development, and remain committed to integrity and service delivery.

Mrs. Tinubu also called on male officers within the civil service to support workplaces built on fairness, respect, and equal opportunity, noting that the success of INSPIRE would be measured by its long-term impact through mentorship, collaboration, and leadership development.

“Our nation needs institutions that can think, adapt, innovate and compete globally. Let INSPIRE become a living network of mentorship, learning, collaboration and leadership,” she said.

She further applauded the leadership of INSPIRE as well as the support of UN Women and other development partners promoting inclusion and innovation in the digital space.

Earlier, Didi Esther Walson-Jack said the presence of the First Lady at the event gave the initiative national significance and moral authority.

“Your unwavering commitment to women’s empowerment, family welfare, youth development, and inclusive social progress is a source of inspiration to millions across the country. We are deeply grateful for your continued advocacy and initiatives,” she said.