By Sharon Akuboh
Dr. Asabe Vilita Bashir has officially resigned as Director General of the Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development, paving the way for her anticipated participation in the 2027 general elections.
Her resignation follows a Federal Government directive requiring public office holders seeking elective positions to step down ahead of the polls. Dr. Bashir formally handed over leadership of the Centre to Mrs. Ebi Emezue, the Director of Training, during a brief ceremony held on April 1, 2026.
Appointed in 2021 under former President Muhammadu Buhari and reappointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Bashir spent five years at the helm of the institution. During her tenure, she spearheaded major reforms, including infrastructural upgrades and improvements in staff welfare, which significantly boosted morale within the organization.
Speaking at her valedictory event, Bashir confirmed her intention to contest in the upcoming elections in Borno State, though she did not disclose the specific office she plans to seek.
She expressed appreciation to President Tinubu and the Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, for their support, while also thanking the Centre’s staff for their cooperation throughout her tenure.
In recognition of her contributions, Bashir was inducted into the Nigeria Women Hall of Fame—an honour highlighting her role in advancing women’s empowerment and her distinction as the first Director General of the Centre to secure a second term.
Colleagues and stakeholders at the event praised her leadership. Mrs. Emezue described her tenure as transformative, citing achievements such as the Centre’s rebranding and increased global visibility for Nigerian women. Union Chairman Mr. Taslim Atoyebi and veteran broadcaster Moji Makanjuola also commended her commitment to innovation, staff welfare, and institutional development.
The ceremony concluded with tributes, a formal citation of her achievements, and her induction into the Hall of Fame, marking the end of a significant chapter in her public service career and the beginning of her political ambitions.