Former First Lady of Namibia, Monica Geingos, has visited Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library Foundation in Abeokuta, a visit said to be part of efforts to gather insights for the proposed presidential library project dedicated to Namibia’s late founding President, Dr. Hage G. Geingob.
Penpushing reports that during the Tuesday visit, Geingos, who was accompanied by members of her delegation described the institution as one of Africa’s most prominent and cohesive presidential libraries.
The former first lady explained that the delegation came to learn from the experiences of the Obasanjo Presidential Library as Namibia prepares to establish a similar institution in honour of the late President Hage G. Geingob.
“We were invited by President Obasanjo to visit the presidential library and we were very interested because we are planning a similar project for the late Dr. Hage G. Geingob. We do not need to reinvent the wheel when successful models already exist,” she said.
Penpushing further reports that, Geingos, pointed out that African countries should learn from one another when addressing governance, leadership and development challenges, described Obasanjo Presidential Library as probably the most prominent and cohesive presidential library on the African continent.
“So, it only makes sense that we benchmarked from our own region. And I think this is probably the most prominent and cohesive presidential library that exists on the continent. So it was important for us to come and benchmark here”.
Penpushing also reports that the former first lady reflected on the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and Namibia, stressing that the ties between both nations predate Namibia’s independence.
“The relationship between Namibia and Nigeria runs very deep. During our liberation struggle, many Namibians were hosted by Nigerian families, and Nigerians contributed resources that supported liberation movements, including SWAPO,” she said.
Penpushing reports that the visiting former Namibian first lady recalled the close personal and political ties between her late husband, former Namibian President Hage Geingob, and Nigeria.
“The relationship between my husband and Nigeria goes a long way to the point that one of his mentors was Professor Adebayo Adedeji, who he came to visit very much in this region, he was his deputy at the United Nations Institute for Namibia. So we’ve got personal professional and political relationships and bonds, that goes very deeply. We’ve got former Nigerian presidents who have streets in Namibia” she said.
Penpushing further reports that the widow equally used the occasion to advocate for greater female participation in leadership across Africa, and expressed pride in serving as Chairperson of the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Presidential Centre.
The former first lady in same vein, celebrated the emergence of Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as Namibia’s first female President and Africa’s second democratically elected female president.
“The message from leaders like Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and President Netumbo is that there is space for women to rise to the highest offices. What matters is competence, preparation and readiness when the opportunity comes,” she said.
Penpushing also reports that Geingos pointed out that leadership should not be viewed through the lens of gender, stressing that power has no gender, but what matters is how it is exercised
“Power has no gender. What matters is how it is exercised. Women must remain strategic, patient and committed to excellence so that when leadership opportunities arise, they are fully prepared,” she added.
Penpushing reports that former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo welcoming Geingos and her team said the library was honoured to host the former Namibian First Lady.
“It is my distinct privilege and pleasure to welcome Your Excellency to our library today. We are deeply honoured by your visit and grateful that you have taken time from your schedule to be with us’, he said.
Penpushing further reports that Obasanjo noted that Geingos’ presence symbolized the enduring friendship between Nigeria and Namibia, while commending her contributions to women empowerment and social development.
“As a former First Lady, you occupy a unique place in the history of your country. Your leadership, service and commitment to the welfare of your people, particularly women and gender emancipation, are widely recognised,” he said.
Penpushing also reports that Obasanjo explained that the presidential library was established to preserve history, promote democratic values and inspire future generations of leaders.
“The library exists to preserve the legacy of those who have shaped our nation’s journey while encouraging young people to embrace responsible leadership and civic engagement. We are delighted to host someone whose life and work embody many of these ideals,” he added.
Penpushing reports that he explained the mission of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) Foundation, describing it as a non-profit institution dedicated to preserving the past, capturing the present, inspiring the future and promoting culture and tourism.
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