President Bola Tinubu and Nigerian First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday celebrated the 66th birthday of First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu with a deeply personal tribute, describing her as his closest friend, trusted confidante and steadfast partner who has stood by him through every stage of his life and political journey.
In a heartfelt birthday message released on September 21, the President reflected on their decades of marriage, expressing gratitude for her unwavering support, faith and compassion. He said if given another chance in life, he would still choose the same path because it led him to her.
Beginning his message with the words, “Oluremi mi,” the President praised his wife for her patience, grace and courage, saying she has remained his greatest source of strength in both difficult and joyful moments.
“Today, I celebrate the woman who has walked beside me with patience, grace and uncommon courage,” Tinubu said.
Quoting a Yoruba proverb, he added: “Àwọn àgbà sọ pé, ‘Ìyàwó rere ni adé ọkọ rẹ̀.’ A good wife is her husband’s crown.”
The President said the biblical description of a virtuous woman in the Book of Proverbs perfectly reflects the First Lady’s life and character.
“You have given these words true meaning in my life. You have stood by my side through every season.”
Reflecting on the challenges they have overcome together, Tinubu said his wife shared his burdens and remained calm even when the future appeared uncertain.
“The burdens that were mine to bear often found their way onto your shoulders. The thoughts I could not put into words somehow found their way to you.
“In difficult times, when the future was uncertain, you stayed calm beside me and prayed with me. Through all these years, you have remained the one who truly understands me.”
The President also described the First Lady as someone who offers honest advice without fear.
“I call you my truest friend and confidante because you speak the truth plainly, even on the days I would rather not hear it.
“After a demanding day, you wait until we are alone before telling me what I need to hear. I have always cherished you for that honesty.”
Tinubu praised Oluremi Tinubu for the values she has instilled in their family, saying their children and grandchildren continue to reflect her faith, kindness and devotion.
He also commended her humanitarian work, noting that many Nigerians have benefited from her compassion and generosity over the years.
According to him, her interventions have reached widows, elderly citizens, women farmers, young people and vulnerable groups across the country.
“Nigerians know you for your compassion, kindness, generosity of spirit and steadfast faith. I have watched you touch lives quietly and consistently, offering hope and support to those in need.”
The President highlighted her social intervention programmes, recalling the impact of the New Era Foundation, established during his tenure as Governor of Lagos State, and the Renewed Hope Initiative, which she now leads as First Lady.
He noted that the initiatives have supported women, children, farmers and vulnerable citizens while also championing healthcare causes, including the fight against tuberculosis.
“From the New Era Foundation during our years in the saddle in Lagos to the Renewed Hope Initiative today, your care has reached many young boys and girls, widows, elderly citizens, and women farmers across the country.
“Those affected by tuberculosis or any disease at all have found in you a compassionate advocate and a determined champion.”
Tinubu further praised his wife for extending kindness without discrimination.
“I know the prayers you offer for people whose names you may never know. I also know many whom you have helped without ever meeting them. For you, compassion has never recognised the boundaries of tribe, region or religion.”
Reflecting on their journey together, the President said their marriage has been sustained by faith, sacrifice, prayer and shared commitment.
“A long journey teaches a man the true value of a good partner. We have travelled a long road together. I think of the difficult decisions we talked through for hours and the sacrifices no one else saw. Laughter and prayer carried us through many of them.”
In one of the most emotional parts of the message, Tinubu declared his enduring love for his wife.
“If life returned me to the beginning, I would choose the same road that led me to you. Through every mile, my heart has always remained at home with you.
“I thank you for the life we have built and the love that has held it together.”
The President concluded by praying for many more years of good health, happiness and fulfilment for the First Lady.
“Happy 66th birthday, my darling Oluremi. I pray that God Almighty will grant you many more years in good health and joy.
“May the years ahead bring you the same comfort and happiness you have so freely given to me and many others.”
Oluremi Tinubu, a former Senator representing Lagos Central, has remained active in public service and humanitarian work. Through the Renewed Hope Initiative, she has continued to support programmes focused on women empowerment, youth development, healthcare, education and social welfare across Nigeria. Her birthday comes as she continues to play a leading role in advancing humanitarian and family-focused initiatives under the current administration.
