First Lady Oluremi backs President Tinubu’s Administration

In a strong defense of her husband’s administration, Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, urged Nigerians not to blame President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the country’s current economic difficulties. Speaking at the Palace of the Ooni of Ife on October 10, 2024, she highlighted that the Tinubu administration is still new, having been in office for just 18 months, and is working diligently to tackle the nation’s challenges.

The economic situation has worsened following the controversial removal of fuel subsidies, which caused petrol prices to surge from N198 to N1,030 almost overnight. This policy change, announced during President Tinubu’s inaugural address on May 29, 2023, aimed to eliminate a long-standing financial burden that critics argue has impeded growth.

During her visit to Ife for the inauguration of a new hostel and a 2.7-kilometer road at Obafemi Awolowo University named after her, Oluremi Tinubu acknowledged the struggles Nigerians are facing. She stated, “We are not the cause of the current situation; we are trying to fix it and secure the future,” expressing hope that, with divine support, Nigeria will emerge stronger in the next two years. “Those who tried to remove subsidies before failed. But with your prayers, we will build a nation for the future,” she called for unity and patience.

Addressing accusations of greed, she reflected on the unique circumstances that brought her husband to power. “It is rare for wealthy individuals to reach this position, but we cannot disappoint Nigeria. With God’s help, we are on our way to the promised land,” she asserted.

As an alumna of OAU, she reaffirmed her commitment to education by announcing a substantial N1 billion donation for the university’s development. “Education and youth development are our administration’s top priorities,” she said, encouraging students to take advantage of the new National Students Loan Scheme.

Furthermore, she introduced her initiative, the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), which plans to provide scholarships and laptops to 47 underprivileged students nationwide, each receiving ₦1 million annually. She also passionately discussed the ‘We Are Equal Campaign’ under the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), aimed at empowering young women facing educational barriers.

In gratitude, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, praised Oluremi’s dedication to uplifting society, which resulted in the creation of a golden statue in her honor at OAU. He described the newly constructed Senator Oluremi Tinubu Way, equipped with solar-powered street lamps, as a symbol of hope and opportunity, reflecting her commitment to providing pathways for youth and women.