The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in partnership with the House of Representatives Spouses Association (HORSA), has launched a two-day capacity-building programme in Abuja aimed at strengthening the digital leadership skills and emotional well-being of spouses of members of the House of Representatives.
The workshop, themed “Empowering Women for the Digital Future: Leadership, Wellbeing and Opportunity,” focuses on digital literacy, cybersecurity awareness, financial empowerment, entrepreneurship, and mental resilience—particularly within the demands of public life.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Fatima Tajudeen Abbas, wife of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, highlighted the importance of emotional stability and mental health for spouses of public office holders. She noted that their responsibilities, though often unseen, are significant.
“There are expectations to fulfil, demanding schedules to manage and public scrutiny to navigate. As spouses, we serve as confidantes and pillars of encouragement, providing stability and support away from the spotlight,” she said.
Abbas stressed that recognising mental health as a core element of leadership reflects strength and self-awareness, not weakness. She observed that the responsibilities attached to the Speaker’s office demand patience, resilience, and the capacity to listen—even in moments of dissent—qualities that spouses often help sustain through personal sacrifice.
Describing HORSA as more than a ceremonial body, she said the association represents a network of women who understand the realities of public service. While public visibility comes with honour, she added, it also brings scrutiny and heightened responsibility.
She further underscored the growing influence of technology on public engagement, warning that misinformation spreads rapidly online and that children are increasingly vulnerable to digital threats.
“Misinformation travels swiftly, and our children are increasingly vulnerable to online threats,” she cautioned, calling for improved digital awareness, cybersecurity knowledge, and financial literacy.
Abbas encouraged participants to go beyond basic technology use and gain deeper understanding of digital footprints, privacy protection, and responsible online conduct to safeguard their families and communities. She also welcomed the inclusion of entrepreneurship and digital economy opportunities in the programme, noting that women’s economic empowerment has far-reaching benefits.
In his goodwill message, Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to the President and former Speaker of the 9th House of Representatives, described lawmakers’ spouses as key contributors to Nigeria’s governance framework.
He said they occupy a unique position that blends moral influence, public trust, and quiet diplomacy, often serving as a bridge between institutions and citizens. Gbajabiamila commended Fatima Abbas for spearheading the partnership with NITDA, describing the initiative as timely and essential in an increasingly technology-driven world.
