Covid-19: Taraba First Lady Changing the Narratives – A. A. Mshelia
Quick Questions
What is power?
What is humility?
What is team spirit?
Who is a mother?
Does position of power change a mother?
These are questions that floaded my mind as I see Her Excellency, the wife of the Executive Governor of Taraba State, Barrister Anna Darius Ishaku do some amazing things.
Today I walked into Hope Afresh Foundation, Her Skills Acquisition Center in Kona Ward, Jalingo to check on a few things and I got the shock of a lifetime.
First, Barr. Anna walked into the place without a convoy or heavy security men. She had just a car.
I was wondering what she could be doing at the center, alone, without convoy or security, in the midst of the blazing sun. When I walked into the mega store at her acquisition centre, I learned her team of staff were packaging palliatives to be distributed to the less privileged who are suffering the effects of the Covid-19 within the state and the lockdown in the state.
At first I was wondering why they were doing that themselves. Can’t they look for labourers to do such dirty job, I thought they are office staff? I recalled there are no people on the street.
Before I could finish my thoughts I saw the first lady, Barr. Anna jumped into the dirt with her office staff and began to sieve and package the palliatives: rice, maize and flour amongst others that will be shared. The bags in hundreds!
I had the privilege to have worked with a couple of first ladies within Nigeria, but I was shocked to my bones and marrows, to have seen such spirit from Barr. Anna Darius Ishaku.
Not only that, she directed a few IDP women that stayed around her centre to assist with the maize as she believes it’s not right to give people without making sure it’s clean. She gave the few women money and soft drinks. One of the women told me, “we could have been dead a long time if not for Mama Anna that has been helping us”. I now understood why they were working excitedly.
I was amazed because, unlike the trend, she was not waiting for people to do the dirty job so she can come and show her self to the cameras on the day of delivery as some other governor’s wives do.
She wasn’t here for a hit and run, she stayed all through the hours of the work and working through with them.
I have transacted with few “first ladies”, I have met some at the airport and I wish I never met them.
What a First lady indeed, Changing the Narratives. That’s what it means to have a wife as described in Proverbs 31. *Like husband like wife.*
Her journey commenced with her participation in the 2023 United Nations General Assembly, held at the heart of global diplomacy in New York City. The First Lady joined a gathering of brilliant minds and visionary leaders, engaging in discussions on critical global issues that shape our world. The atmosphere was marked by a spirit of cooperation and understanding that left a lasting impression.
In a demonstration of her commitment to economic progress and innovation, the First Lady also took part in the Nigeria Economic Growth and Trade Summit, where she was joined by fellow state governors’ wives and the esteemed First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu. Together, they explored avenues for economic advancement, innovation, and international partnerships, laying a solid foundation for a prosperous Nigeria.
Furthermore, the First Lady actively participated in the celebration of the 2023 United Nations Day, a day dedicated to promoting peace and unity on a global scale. In a world frequently confronted by challenges, this occasion served as a poignant reminder of the importance of harmony and unity among nations, highlighting our collective responsibility to work towards a peaceful future.
One of the most cherished moments during her visit was the celebration of Her Excellency, the First Lady of Nigeria. Surrounded by exceptional women, including the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and fellow state governors’ wives, they shared in the joy of sisterhood and collaboration. These inspiring women collectively stand as agents of change, fostering understanding, and shaping a future where compassion and cooperation are paramount.
The First Lady of Taraba State expressed her gratitude for the unwavering support and encouragement received during her visit. She emphasized the importance of continuing this journey together, united in their vision for a harmonious world and a thriving Nigeria.
Her visit to the United States has undoubtedly contributed to strengthening diplomatic ties and promoting global cooperation, reaffirming the significance of state leaders in fostering international unity and progress.