First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, says the nation has a space for women in all spheres and they can occupy that space with their continued hard work and dedication.

She was speaking during the visit by the management team of the Nigeria Customs Service and the National Sports Commission and others paid her a visit at the State House Abuja.

The visit which was led by the Comptroller General of the NCS Wale Adeniyi was to honour her as the Grand Patron for the 2025 African Women’s Volleyball Championship, scheduled for April, this year.

The First Lady who expressed her appreciation noted that the Nation occupies the pride of place in the sports world due to the relentless efforts of female athletes.

She urged these females who have been made their mark to mentor and be role models to young Nigeria Females with the message of encouragement to them.

She called on female star athletes from Nigeria to come back home and inspire other girls.

“Share not just your stories of successes and achievements but also your humble beginnings”.

“I can see that out of the 4 DCGs here 3 of you are women. And that tells me you have worked, worked, worked and worked. For you to be at the top, you must have worked hard. When you have been given a platform, it is not just about you. Go on and lift others, encourage them”.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who according to her guests is fast gaining reputation as a pillar of sports in Nigeria, particularly, where it involves women explained that she is expected to carry yet another torch for women, this time as the Grand Patron for the 2025 African Women’s Club Volleyball Championship, to be hosted by Nigeria, with the Customs Service flying the flag of the nation.

The Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, while presenting her with the offer said the Service has taken particular notes of her support for female athletes and teams in the country, and will want her inspire the Nigerian team to victory at the championship.

“there is a popular saying that when a woman puts her hand to the plough, the earth itself will respond to her. All your initiatives and generosity are unparalleled and this is a great source of inspiration to us all”.

In his remarks, the Director General of the National Sports Commission Bukola Olapade pointed out with enthusiasm that the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the support of the First Lady for Sports has brought in a new vista of life to participants in the sector especially the females.

According to the DG, the Nigerian Girl Child can now truly hold her head up high.

The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu was then presented with her kits as the Grand Patron of the 2025 Africa Female Volleyball Tournament.

Twenty-three other African countries are expected to join the host, Nigeria, at the championship which runs between April 1 and 14.