Emine Erdogan Engages with Nigeria’s First Lady in Abuja Encounter
Abuja, The Gulf Observer: In a pivotal development aimed at bolstering cancer control efforts across Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member African countries, Türkiye’s First Lady Emine Erdogan embarked on a significant journey to Abuja, Nigeria, where she assumed the role of guest of honour at the Awareness and Support Program for Cancer Control.
The esteemed arrival of Emine Erdogan at Abuja Airport was met with a warm reception, as she was graciously welcomed by Nigerian Minister of State for Police Affairs, Imaan Suleiman Ibrahim, along with Turkish Ambassador to Abuja, Hidayet Bayraktar, and his spouse.
Subsequently, Emine Erdogan engaged in a substantive exchange with Remi Tinubu, the wife of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, during a closed-door meeting. Tinubu conveyed her heartfelt appreciation for Emine Erdogan’s participation in the program and deliberated on the profound impact of her involvement. Emphasizing the collective strength in the fight against cancer, their discourse underscored the overarching theme of unity prevailing over adversity.
An auspicious highlight of Emine Erdogan’s itinerary was the inauguration of the Exhibition of the Association of Women Artists of Nigeria at the esteemed Yunus Emre Institute in Abuja. Here, amidst the vibrant ambiance, she interacted with Nigerian youths endeavoring to master the Turkish language and partook in a soul-stirring flute recital, further cementing cultural ties between Türkiye and Nigeria.
In a poignant address, Emine Erdogan extolled the tireless endeavors of the African Leaders’ Wives for Development Organisation, lauding their unwavering commitment to raising awareness about the scourge of cancer. She reiterated her steadfast belief in the potency of unity as a catalyst for fostering heightened awareness and solidarity in the global fight against cancer.
The “Awareness and Support Program for Cancer Control in Organisation of Islamic Cooperation,” a cornerstone event stemming from the inaugural session convened in Istanbul in 2016 under Emine Erdogan’s auspices, holds profound significance. Scheduled to deliver the keynote address at the opening session, Emine Erdogan’s esteemed presence underscores Türkiye’s resolute dedication to combating cancer on the African continent and fortifying ties with its esteemed African counterparts.
Emine Erdogan’s diplomatic foray into Nigeria serves as a poignant testament to Türkiye’s unwavering commitment to championing the cause of cancer control and fostering enduring partnerships with African nations in the collective pursuit of global health equity and well-being.