During a special Juma'at prayer on Friday in Freetown, Sierra Leone, Dr. Fatima Bio, the First Lady of Sierra Leone, organized Tinubu's call.
In advance of the Saturday, 2023 UN World Day Against Rape and Girl-Child Exploitation, the program was organized to honor the nation's survivors of sexual exploitation, abuse, and violence.
The First Lady also encouraged anyone who knew of someone being abused or who had personally experienced such a threat to come forward so that they might receive assistance.
"I am here to support my sister; I know it seems simple today, but trust me, women will remember that one Dr. Fatima took this path in the future when they are free to rise and speak for themselves.
"Women, speak up! Your voice could potentially help others when you speak up."
"First ladies are supposed to stand by their husbands, but that doesn't mean we can't speak out on issues that are important to us; after all, when you hurt one, you hurt us all."
"I want to commend President Julius Maada-Bio of Sierra Leone for standing by the women. Today is not just a day of freedom for Sierra Leone; I believe it is a freedom for the world."
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), dignitaries including the First Lady of Angola, Ana Lourenco, as well as UN representatives, are present at the function.