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OLUREMI TINUBU: A FIRST LADY OF DISTINCTION, A PRIDE TO NIGERIA AND AFRICA
BY
DR FELIX BABATUNDE ALE
In the annals of Nigeria’s history, few moments have carried the weight of global recognition as profoundly as the recent commendation of Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, by the President of the United States, Donald Trump, during the Washington National Prayer gathering. His words were strikingly clear: “We’re honoured to be joined today by the First Lady of Nigeria, who also happens to serve as a Christian Pastor at the largest church in Nigeria.
A very respected woman. Thank you very much. It’s a great honour”
For a sitting American President, known for his frankness and boldness, to single out Nigeria’s First Lady for such recognition is not only historic but also a testament to the calibre of leadership and dignity Mrs. Tinubu embodies.
This is the first time a Nigerian First Lady has been accorded such global commendation, and it speaks volumes about the respect she commands internationally.
I have known Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu for decades and more closely during my tenure as Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Governor of Ondo State between 1999 and 2003, when she was First Lady of Lagos State.
My assessment, premised on her enviable track record, is unequivocal: no other First Lady across Nigeria’s states could match her achievements in supporting the historic twoterm tenure of her husband, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in Lagos.
She was outstanding, a woman of substance and excellence, whose initiatives in education, health, and women empowerment left indelible marks in the history of Lagos State as her signature project the New Era Foundation till date remains a reference point.
Her success story did not end there. As Senator representing the Lagos Central Senatorial District from 2011 to 2023, Mrs. Tinubu distinguished herself with legislative brilliance, advocacy for women and youth, and a reputation for integrity. In terms of experience, political exposure, and achievements in the public sector, she remains unmatched.
Indeed, there is no past Nigerian First Lady who can parade the credentials Oluremi Tinubu possesses.
Philosophically, Mrs. Tinubu represents what Plato described as the “ideal harmony between wisdom and virtue.” She is not only a distinguished Nigerian and a pride to the womenfolk, she is the perfect complement to her husband, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and a vital force in the life of his administration.
Her charisma, noble qualities, and achievements add immense value to Nigeria’s leadership profile on the global stage.
Since the inception of the present administration, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has no doubt distinguished herself as a woman of rare attributes and noble qualities.
Her activities have been marked by compassion, vision, and a deep commitment to uplifting the lives of ordinary Nigerians.
Through her Renewed Hope Initiative, Mrs. Tinubu has launched empowerment programmes that target women, youths, and vulnerable groups across the country.
She has supported women farmers with financial grants and training to enhance food sufficiency, while also championing educational and health initiatives that directly impact communities.
Her work reflects a passion to educate, motivate, and assist citizens so they can enjoy the full benefits of governance and citizenship.
Beyond social empowerment, Mrs. Tinubu has also played a role in strengthening Nigeria’s international image. Her diplomatic engagements, including discussions on security reforms and cooperation with the United States, highlight her ability to combine grace with substance in representing Nigeria on the global stage.
Against this background, one may be right to say that, Mrs. Tinubu embodies what Aristotle described as the union of virtue and action.
She is not content with titles or ceremonial roles; she translates her values into tangible programmes that touch lives. Her integrity, honour, and excellence are evident in the way she carries herself—as a pastor, a legislator, and now as First Lady.
It is clear that Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu is not only a blessing to her husband, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, but also to Nigeria as a nation.
She represents a rare combination of political experience, moral conviction, and humanitarian passion. Her presence in the administration adds depth, credibility, and a human touch to governance.
As Nigerians, we must recognize and appreciate the noble qualities and charisma she brings to public life.
Her achievements justify the respect she commands internationally and the commendations she has received. In her, Nigeria has a First Lady who is both a pride to the womenfolk and a beacon of hope to the nation, Africa, and the Black race.
Nigerians must learn to recognise and appreciate such rare excellence.
As Aristotle reminds us, “Excellence is never an accident; it is the result of high intention, sincere effort, and intelligent execution.” Mrs. Tinubu embodies this truth. The global recognition accorded her by President Trump is not just a personal honour—it is a moment for Nigeria and Africa to shine in the international community.
I therefore congratulate Nigerians across the globe for this inspiring moment. And to Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, I extend heartfelt wishes for continued success in all her endeavours. She stands today not only as a pride to Nigerian women, but to Nigerians, Africans, and indeed the Black race.
Dr Felix Babatunde Ale is a Media Icon and Distinguished Science Writer in Africa.
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