ABUJA, Nigeria — Vice President Kashim Shettima has paid tribute to the late Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji, mother of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing her as a remarkable leader whose influence continues to impact Nigeria through the values she instilled in her son.
Okay News reports that Shettima, who represented President Tinubu at the Annual Grand Prayer Session held in honour of the late matriarch at the National Mosque in Abuja on Sunday, said Alhaja Mogaji’s legacy extended far beyond her family and touched countless lives across the country.
The Vice President said the former Iyaloja-General of Nigeria demonstrated leadership through service, compassion, and dedication to the welfare of ordinary Nigerians, particularly market women and traders. According to him, she devoted much of her life to organising and empowering women in commerce, transforming scattered efforts into collective strength while ensuring their voices were heard and respected.
Shettima noted that President Tinubu’s commitment to public service and democratic ideals reflected lessons learned from his mother, whom he described as a woman who viewed leadership as a responsibility owed to the people. He said the President inherited from her a deep conviction that government must work for ordinary citizens and that public office is a sacred trust.
“A mother shaped a leader, and through that leader her values now serve the whole of Nigeria,” the Vice President said, adding that Alhaja Mogaji’s example of selfless service remains visible in the leadership style of the President.
He further praised the late community leader for consistently standing up for the vulnerable, mediating disputes, feeding those in need, and protecting traders from exploitation. According to him, she earned the respect and affection of many because she prioritised service above personal recognition.
Offering prayers for her repose, Shettima asked Allah to forgive her shortcomings, reward her good deeds, and grant her eternal rest in paradise. He also prayed for strength and comfort for President Tinubu and members of the Mogaji family.
The Vice President expressed confidence that Nigeria would overcome its current economic and security challenges through unity, prayers, and collective effort. He assured Nigerians that the Tinubu administration remains focused on implementing policies aimed at improving security, stimulating economic growth, and enhancing citizens’ welfare.
Earlier, Special Adviser to the President on Political Affairs and Other Matters, Ibrahim Kabir Masari, described the late Alhaja Mogaji as a woman devoted to serving humanity. He disclosed that over 250 hand-pump boreholes had been constructed across nine northern states in her memory, providing clean water to thousands of residents.
Masari also announced plans to establish the Abibatu Mogaji Islamic Centre in Abuja and construct a modern Juma’at Mosque in Rigasa, Kaduna State, as part of efforts to preserve her legacy.
The event was attended by several prominent figures, including Governors Babagana Umara Zulum, Mai Mala Buni, and Umar Namadi, alongside former governors, ministers, traditional rulers, and Islamic scholars who offered prayers for national peace, unity, and prosperity.
