Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, emphasized the vital role of early childhood education in shaping the future of individuals and nations at the Fifth Edition of the Forum of Women Leaders in Bujumbura,

She highlighted that the years from birth to age eight are crucial for cognitive, physical, and emotional development, laying the foundation for long-term success and national prosperity.

With the theme “Investing in Early Childhood to Build Human Capital Throughout Life,” the forum gathered First Ladies and leaders to discuss child development strategies. Senator Tinubu called for increased support to complement government efforts in implementing early childhood education policies, emphasizing that this investment has a transformative impact on society.

Speakers, including the First Ladies of several nations and representatives from the UN and UNICEF, advocated for initiatives like school feeding programs to boost early school attendance, especially in Africa. Burundi’s President, Évariste Ndayishimiye, also highlighted the essential role of strong family values in fostering positive child outcomes.