November 14, 2007

Nigerian Governors’ Wives Speak Out

The wives of the governors of the 19 northern states in Nigeria have agreed to work together to address problems such as HIV infection and child abuse in the country (allafrica.com/Daily Trust, 11/14).

At a meeting in Kaduna on Monday, November 12, the governors’ wives discussed areas in need of attention, including HIV/AIDS, child rape and neglect, women and youth empowerment, education for girls and other children and maternal health.

“As wives and mothers, our role is supportive, especially in mobilizing people towards understanding and supporting the various policies put in place by our various husbands,” said Mrs. Hajiya Amina Sambo, wife of the Kaduna State governor. “The forum of governors' wives when formed will go a long way in addressing problems of society…[and]…will also enable first ladies speak with one voice.”

She added, “Every minute a child under 15 years dies of an AIDS-related illness, another child becomes HIV positive and four youths between the ages of 15 and 24 years contact [sic] HIV.”