Vice President Kashim Shettima has paid glowing tribute to the late Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji, mother of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing her as an extraordinary woman whose influence extended far beyond her family and left a lasting impact on Nigeria’s social and political landscape.
Speaking on Sunday at the Annual Grand Prayer Session held in her honour at the National Mosque in Abuja, Shettima said the late Iyaloja-General of Nigeria lived a life defined by service, compassion and leadership, leaving behind values that continue to inspire generations.
Representing President Tinubu at the event, the Vice President noted that Alhaja Mogaji’s legacy was not built on public acclaim but on the countless lives she touched and the communities she strengthened throughout her lifetime.
According to him, her leadership was reflected in the opportunities she created for others, particularly market women and small-scale traders who benefited from her advocacy and commitment to their welfare.
Shettima said the late matriarch played a significant role in shaping the character and leadership qualities of President Tinubu, stressing that many of the values guiding the President today were first nurtured under her guidance.
“It should surprise no one that the son she raised carries the same fire into the highest office in our land. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu learned at her side that public service is a trust and that leadership must first serve ordinary citizens,” the Vice President said.
He noted that the President’s commitment to democracy, public service and national development can be traced to the lessons and principles instilled in him by his mother.
Reflecting on her life, Shettima described Alhaja Mogaji as a remarkable leader who understood the importance of empowering communities through economic inclusion and collective action.
He said she devoted much of her life to improving the welfare of traders, especially women, helping them organise, strengthen their businesses and amplify their voices within society.
According to the Vice President, she transformed what was once a fragmented community of traders into a strong and influential network capable of advancing the interests of its members.
“She taught a generation of market women that their work mattered, that their voices carried weight and that their labour deserved dignity and respect,” he said.
Shettima further praised her humanitarian spirit, noting that she consistently stood with the vulnerable, mediated disputes and provided support to those facing hardship.
The Vice President offered prayers for the repose of her soul, asking Almighty Allah to forgive her shortcomings, reward her good deeds and grant her eternal rest in paradise.
He also used the occasion to express optimism about Nigeria’s future, saying the nation would overcome its current economic and security challenges through unity, prayer and responsible leadership.
According to him, President Tinubu remains fully committed to implementing reforms aimed at improving security, strengthening the economy and enhancing the welfare of Nigerians.
Earlier, the Convener of the prayer session and Special Adviser to the President on Political Affairs and Other Matters, Alhaji Ibrahim Kabir Masari, highlighted several initiatives established in memory of the late Abibatu Mogaji.
Masari disclosed that more than 250 hand-pump boreholes had been constructed across nine northern states to provide clean water to communities, while plans were underway to establish the Abibatu Mogaji Islamic Centre in Abuja.
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He also announced the proposed construction of a modern Juma’at Mosque in Rigasa, Kaduna State, complete with residential facilities for religious leaders and support staff.
Islamic scholars at the event offered special prayers for the late matriarch and also prayed for peace, national unity, economic prosperity and improved security across the country.
Among the dignitaries present were Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni, Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi, former Nasarawa State Governor Tanko Al-Makura, former Kebbi State Governor Usman Sa’idu Dakingari, and representatives of the Sultan of Sokoto.
Several ministers, senior government officials, traditional rulers and religious leaders also attended the gathering to honour the memory of the late Abibatu Mogaji and celebrate her enduring contributions to national development.