US First Lady Jill Biden hosted a farewell luncheon for First Ladies from around the world, including Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, on the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. The luncheon, held at Pier 57, marked Jill Biden’s final official gathering with these global leaders as First Lady of the United States.
During her remarks, Jill Biden expressed deep appreciation for the relationships she had built with the First Ladies over the years, acknowledging the shared efforts to promote global peace and development. “This will be the last time I host this event as your First Lady,” she said, reflecting on the many gatherings during her time in office. “I have a strong feeling that I will see more of you in the next chapter of my life, and I’m grateful for your continued partnership.”
Biden, whose husband, President Joe Biden, will leave office in January 2025, also wished the First Ladies safe travels back to their respective countries, especially those facing long journeys. She assured them that despite her departure from office, their relationships would endure, continuing to support important global causes.
The annual UNGA luncheons have traditionally served as a platform for First Ladies to engage in informal bilateral discussions, fostering diplomatic ties while exploring avenues for collaboration on pressing issues such as education, health, and development.
Oluremi Tinubu’s attendance at this event marked the conclusion of her engagements at the UNGA, where she participated in various discussions aimed at promoting Nigeria’s development on the global stage.
### Reaffirming Commitment to Fight TB and Antimicrobial Resistance
Earlier in the week, Nigeria’s First Lady took part in a UNGA side event hosted by the Stop TB Partnership, where she underscored Nigeria’s ongoing commitment to eradicating Tuberculosis (TB) and tackling the growing threat of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).
According to Tinubu, Nigeria continues to face a high burden of TB, with over 125,000 lives lost annually to the disease. “TB affects all, but the poor are most vulnerable,” she said, calling for a united global approach to combat the twin challenges of TB and AMR. Tinubu emphasized the importance of innovative strategies, increased public awareness, and the prioritization of research aimed at developing new vaccines and tools to fight these health challenges.
The event, themed “Breaking the Resistance: Fighting AMR and TB Together for a Healthy Future,” brought together health ministers, key global stakeholders, and leaders from various countries. Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister for Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, was also in attendance, alongside First Ladies such as Dr. Olufolake Abdulrazaq of Kwara State and Barrister Chioma Uzodimma of Imo State.
Tinubu’s participation in the event highlighted Nigeria’s dedication to advancing global health solutions and fostering international cooperation in the fight against TB and AMR.
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