President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended warm felicitations to Nigeria’s former First Lady, Chief Margaret Shonekan, as she marks her 84th birthday on October 28, 2025.
In a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu praised Mrs. Shonekan, wife of the late Head of the Interim National Government, Chief Ernest Shonekan, for her lifelong dedication to public service, education, and national development.
The President described the octogenarian as “a woman of exemplary humility and kindness whose legacy continues to inspire generations of Nigerians.” He lauded her remarkable contributions to strengthening public institutions, promoting educational excellence, and advancing human capital development.
“Mrs. Shonekan devoted her entire career to the strengthening of public institutions, with a focus on promoting effective service delivery, providing qualitative and reliable educational assessments for students, and encouraging moral and academic excellence,” the President said.
President Tinubu recalled Mrs. Shonekan’s outstanding career at the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), where she began as a Trainee Assistant Registrar in 1965 and later rose to become Head of the National Office between 1995 and 2000. He commended her patriotism for returning to WAEC in 1994 after briefly serving as Nigeria’s First Lady during her husband’s three-month tenure as Head of State.
“Her courage, commitment, and integrity remain a shining example of selfless service. She stands as a model of dedication to the education sector and a symbol of grace and resilience,” Tinubu noted.
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The President also acknowledged her role in shaping Nigeria’s education landscape through effective leadership and policy reforms that improved the credibility of public examinations and strengthened human resource development.
Tinubu prayed for Mrs. Shonekan’s continued health, strength, and peace of mind, describing her as a national treasure whose life continues to impact many positively.
“On behalf of the government and people of Nigeria, I celebrate Mama Margaret Shonekan on her 84th birthday and thank God for her remarkable journey of service and faith,” the President said.
Mrs. Shonekan, widely respected for her intellect, humility, and professionalism, remains one of Nigeria’s most accomplished women administrators and a trailblazer in public service.