Tag: Oluremi Tinubu

  • First Lady launches empowerment initiative for 18,500 women

    First Lady launches empowerment initiative for 18,500 women

    First Lady Oluremi Tinubu on Friday unveiled the North Central Zone Women’s Empowerment Programme at the State House Banquet Hall in Abuja, in a move to bolster women’s economic empowerment and sustainable development.

    The initiative, spearheaded by the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) in collaboration with the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (OSSAP-SDGs), aims to directly impact 18,500 women across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, beginning with 500 beneficiaries from each state in the North Central Zone. 

    The programme, which aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, seeks to equip women with essential tools and resources to start or expand their businesses, fostering economic independence and contributing to national development.

    Items distributed include deep-chest freezers, gas cookers with ovens, generators, and industrial grinding machines. 

    In her keynote address, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu emphasized the critical role of women in nation-building and the alignment of the initiative with global development goals.

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    “Women’s empowerment is central to achieving all the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG-5 on gender equality and SDG-8 on decent work and economic growth.

    “These items are not just tools; they are stepping stones toward financial independence and a better future for Nigerian women,” she said.

    She urged beneficiaries to use the resources wisely, saying, “let what you receive today prosper in your hands as you contribute meaningfully to our nation’s progress.” 

    Also speaking, Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, highlighted the transformative potential of the programme.

    “Today’s initiative is about unlocking potential, fostering economic independence, and creating opportunities for women to thrive,” she said.

     She commended the First Lady for her leadership and reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring no woman is left behind in Nigeria’s journey toward achieving the SDGs. 

    Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, praised the initiative for its focus on domestic resource mobilization.

  • Despite politics, late Adebanjo was still family – First Lady

    Despite politics, late Adebanjo was still family – First Lady

    First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has described the late Afenifere chieftain, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, as not just a political figure but also family despite differences in political affiliations.

    She made this remark during a condolence visit to the late statesman’s residence in Lekki, Lagos where she met with his widow, Chief Mrs. Christiana Anoko Adebanjo and other family members.

    First Lady of Nigeria Senator Oluremi Tinubu and the children of Late Chief Ayo Adebanjo during her visit to the family at his Lagos residence on Thursday, 20th February 2025

    Expressing sorrow over his passing, the First Lady noted that she was grateful for the opportunity to see him shortly before his death. 

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    According to a statement by her Senior Special Assistant on Media, Busola Kukoyi, the First Lady prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul and for strength for his widow and family.

    First Lady of Nigeria Senator Oluremi Tinubu with the wife of the Lagos and Ogun State Governors and also Children of the Late Chief Ayo Adebanjo during her visit to the family at his Lagos residence on Thursday, 20th February 2025

    In response, the late leader’s son, Femi Adebanjo, appreciated the visit, describing it as heartwarming.

    Adebanjo, a respected elder statesman and a leading figure in the Yoruba sociopolitical group, Afenifere, passed away on February 14 at 96

  • First Lady seeks social justice for all

    First Lady seeks social justice for all

    • Nigeria joins International Day of Social Justice celebration

    The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has reaffirmed her commitment to a more inclusive society where everyone is treated justly, fairly, and equitably.

    She called for collective efforts to break down barriers that hinder social justice and equality.

    In a statement marking this year’s International Day of Social Justice with the theme: Empowering Inclusion: Bridging Gaps for Social Justice, the First Lady stressed the need for every Nigerian,  irrespective of gender, ethnicity, or socio-economic background, to have equal opportunities to thrive.

    “Today, we reflect on the progress we have made and acknowledge the challenges that remain in our journey towards social justice,” she said.

    Mrs. Tinubu noted that creating spaces for inclusion is essential to national development.

    She urged fellow Nigerians to work together to close the gaps that divide the society.

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    “It is time to pull down barriers and create spaces for inclusion, where no one is left behind. Let us work together to bridge the gaps that divide us, ensuring that every Nigerian, especially from marginalised communities, is empowered to succeed in life,” Mrs. Tinubu said.

    The First Lady reaffirmed her commitment to fostering policies and initiatives that promote equal opportunities and social justice, urging stakeholders to collaborate in building a future where every Nigerian can freely contribute to the nation’s growth.

    “Together, we can build a future where everyone can freely contribute to the growth of our dear nation,” she added.

    The International Day of Social Justice, observed annually on February 20, highlights global efforts to promote equality, fair treatment, and inclusive policies for all.

  • First Lady pledges greater advocacy for women, youth at OAFLAD General Assembly

    First Lady pledges greater advocacy for women, youth at OAFLAD General Assembly

    First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has reaffirmed her commitment to advocacy, resource mobilization, and partnerships aimed at closing the gender gap and advancing women and youth empowerment in Nigeria.

    This was contained in a statement issued by her Senior Special Assistant on Media, Busola Kukoyi, on Sunday.

    Speaking at the 29th General Assembly of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Mrs. Tinubu emphasized the need for African nations to harness their heritage in shaping a new vision for women’s leadership and rights.

    She highlighted this year’s theme, “Building on Beijing: First Ladies Championing Women’s Leadership and Rights through African Heritage,” as a call to reflect on Africa’s values and their role in promoting gender equality.

    “This year marks three decades since the adoption of the Beijing Declaration. The impact of this declaration is evident in the remarkable progress Nigerian women have made, emerging from our villages to big cities and even the world stage,” she said.

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    She noted that while women in Nigeria have made strides in education, health, science, technology, politics, business, and the arts, significant challenges remain, particularly in health, female genital mutilation (FGM), child marriage, gender-based violence, and girl-child education.

    As a new member of OAFLAD’s Steering Committee, Senator Tinubu pledged to strengthen partnerships that will drive the implementation of the organization’s 2025-2030 Strategic Framework.

    “As we progress with #WeAreEqualInAction, I am committed to advocacy, resource mobilization, and fostering partnerships to close the gender gap and boost women and youth empowerment in Nigeria,” she stated.

    She assured delegates that she would intensify efforts through her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) to enhance opportunities for women, youth, and vulnerable groups across Nigeria.

    Highlighting key interventions by RHI, the First Lady announced that 60,000 professional kits (comprising scrubs and Crocs) have been procured for midwives to support the federal government’s retraining of 120,000 health workers. She recently began distributing 10,000 kits in North Central Nigeria, with other regions set to benefit in the coming months.

    To tackle Nigeria’s high HIV/AIDS burden, she launched the Free to Shine Triple Elimination Campaign on January 30, 2025, aimed at reducing mother-to-child transmission of HIV/AIDS, syphilis, and hepatitis while improving reproductive health services.

    Additionally, she revealed plans to partner with the Federal Ministry of the Environment to expand environmental awareness programs in secondary schools and universities, including the re-launch of the Environment Climate Change Club.

    Other speakers at the assembly, including Amb. Minata Samaté Cessouma (African Union), Prof. Senait Fisseha (Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation), and H.E. Winnie Byanyima (UNAIDS) underscored the urgent need for increased funding and policy action to bridge gender disparities, combat gender-based violence, and secure Africa’s future.

    The 29th OAFLAD General Assembly, attended by 13 First Ladies in person and eight representatives, marks a significant moment in Africa’s journey toward gender equality, building on the legacy of the 1995 Beijing Women’s Conference.

    Senator Tinubu reaffirmed that true African prosperity will be built on “the foundation of our rich history, vibrant cultures, and the strength of our people, with women and youth playing a pivotal role in shaping our future.”

  • First Lady elected member of OAFLAD Steering Committee

    First Lady elected member of OAFLAD Steering Committee

    Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has been elected as a member, the Steering Committee of the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), the highest decision-making body of the organization.

    This was at the 29th Ordinary General Assembly of the organization ongoing in Addis Ababa on the sideline of the 38th African Union Summit Ordinary Session.

    This was made known on Saturday in a statement issued by her Senior Special Assistant on Media, Busola Kukoyi.

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    She joins the 8-member Steering Committee as one of the two members representing West Africa.

    Other member-nations elected include Sierra Leone, whose First Lady is the new President of the Organization, Angola, whose First Lady is the Vice President, Malawi, Kenya, Ethiopia, Equatorial Guinea and Congo.

    She will serve in the new position for a two- year- tenure.

    Mrs Tinubu, who is already a strong voice within OAFLAD, is expected to further carry the torch of the organization, driving its advocacy initiatives towards the realization of its 2025-2030 Strategic Framework.

  • First Lady calls for sustainable health financing in Africa

    First Lady calls for sustainable health financing in Africa

    Africa’s aspirations for progress, economic growth and social stability will remain difficult to achieve without a robust healthcare system that guarantees access to essential healthcare services for millions of Africans.

    First Lady Oluremi Tinubu stated this at a high-level meeting on Domestic Health Financing in Africa, organised by Rwandan President, Paul Kagame, on the margins of the 38th AU Summit in Addis Ababa.

    According to a statement by her Senior Special Assistant on Media, Busola Kukoyi, First Lady Tinubu called for a sustainable financing that ensures efficient mobilization and utilization of resources for both short, medium, and long-term impact.

    She explained that achieving a wealthy continent is largely dependent on the health of the people, and with the impending funding gaps occasioned by recent policy changes in the United States, the African continent must look inward for sustainable solution.

    Read Also: Nigeria mourns Adebanjo, a titan of democracy — Tinubu 

    Sharing Nigeria’s perspective on the issue, she harped on the need for a health system that guarantees access to quality health services without imposing financial hardships.

    “Africa cannot continue to rely solely on donor funding and foreign aid, which, although helpful, are often unpredictable and unsustainable. Instead, we must develop innovative financing strategies tailored to our unique challenges and circumstances,” she said.

    The First Lady pointed out that her role as the Global and National Stop TB Champion mirrors the role that other First Ladies, leveraging their position and platform, can play in resources mobilization for health from government, the private sector and donor agencies.

    “Given the increasing funding gap for health on the continent, I urge us all to come together and commit to advocating for increased national health budgets. 

    “In line with the Abuja Declaration, our governments should allocate at least 15% of their budgetary allocations to health. We must also support innovative financing mechanisms and explore sustainable models, such as expanding health insurance coverage, health endowment funds, and investments from the African diaspora. 

    “Accountability and transparency must be ensured, as funds allocated to health must be used efficiently and effectively”, she said.

    Global and regional perspectives on domestic health financing in Africa and its contributions to the global agenda were also explored by Presidents and Heads of State of other nations present, including those of Rwanda, Ethiopia, Botswana, Kenya, Senegal, Zimbabwe, Barbados, donor agencies and funding partners.

    They were unequivocal that Africa must begin to look inwards for homegrown solutions to its health care needs which include research, medications, technology, improved manpower and importantly, funding if it will be able to keep its citizens productive and prosperous.

    The high-level meeting, on domestic health financing, organized by Rwandan President, Paul Kagame on the sidelines of the 38th African Union Summit Ordinary Session in Addis Ababa.

  • First Lady’s N100m distributed to Niger explosion victims

    First Lady’s N100m distributed to Niger explosion victims

    The wife of Niger State governor, Hajiya Fatima Bago, has distributed N100 million which the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, donated to victims of a dynamite explosion at Sabon-Pegi in Mashegu Local Government Area of the state.

    The intervention is meant to give succour to victims of the incident.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Mrs. Tinubu had, on February 4, during a sympathy visit to Governor Umaru Bago, announced a donation of N100 million to the explosion victims.

    NAN recalls that the explosion occurred at Sabon Pegi in Mashegu Local Government Area on January 26, where three people were reported killed and several others injured.

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    During the distribution of the First Lady’s donation, Hajiya Bago explained that the intervention was aimed at supporting about 70 people affected by the disaster.

    “The money is for the community, especially those that were affected by the disaster,” she said.

    The governor’s wife emphasised the need for sensitisation campaign to educate parents about the risks involved in illegal mining.

    According to her, many parents are unaware of the dangers posed by illegal mining, which outweigh the benefits they derive from it.

    Mrs. Bago promised to collaborate with the Ministries of Women Affairs and that of the Humanitarian to create awareness through various media platforms on the dangers of illegal mining.

  • First Lady reaffirms commitment to women empowerment

    First Lady reaffirms commitment to women empowerment

    • Senator Tinubu hails DSS for ensuring gender balance among personnel

    The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has reaffirmed her commitment to empowering women and ensuring their active participation in leadership and decision-making processes.

    Senator Tinubu said this when she hosted a delegation of top personnel of the Department of State Services (DSS), led by its Deputy Director-General, Mrs. Afolashade Adekayaoja, at the State House yesterday Abuja.

    The First Lady said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was dedicated to gender inclusion at all levels of governance.

    She expressed gratitude for the visit, highlighting President Tinubu administration’s dedication to empowering women and ensuring their active participation in decision-making at all levels.

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    Senator Tinubu stressed the need to recognise and reward the tireless contributions of hardworking women in various sectors, saying leadership positions held by women serve as a representation of other women across the country.

    The First Lady said she hoped that women in leadership would support each other, work collaboratively, and discharge their responsibilities diligently to ensure progress for the nation.

    Mrs. Adekayaoja thanked President Tinubu and the First Lady for advancing the cause of women across the country.

    She lauded their efforts to place women in key leadership positions where they can make significant contributions to national governance.

    The DSS chief also expressed appreciation to the First Lady for advocating gender equality and support for the DSS.

  • First Lady reaffirms commitment to women’s empowerment

    First Lady reaffirms commitment to women’s empowerment

    …commends the DSS for striking a gender balance with personnel

    First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has reaffirmed her commitment to empowering women and ensuring their active participation in leadership and decision-making processes.

    Speaking during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the Directorate of State Services (DSS), led by Deputy Director-General, Mrs. Afolashade Adekayaoja, at the State House, Abuja, the First Lady emphasized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s dedication to gender inclusion at all levels of governance.

    The First Lady expressed gratitude for the visit, highlighting the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration’s priority to empowering women and ensuring their active participation in decision-making at all levels.

    Senator Oluremi Tinubu emphasized the importance of recognizing and rewarding the tireless contributions of hardworking women in various sectors, stating that leadership positions held by women serve as a representation of other women across the country.

    The First Lady further expressed her hope that the women in leadership would support each other, work collaboratively, and discharge their responsibilities diligently to ensure progress for the nation.

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    Mrs. Afolashade Adekayaoja, in her remarks, thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the First Lady for their strong support in advancing the cause of women in the nation.

    She commended their ongoing efforts to place women in key leadership positions, where they can make significant contributions to national governance.

    The DSS Deputy Director General Mrs. Adekayaoja also expressed her appreciation for the First Lady’s steadfast advocacy for gender equality and the overall support for the DSS.

    She reaffirmed the DSS’s commitment to protecting the lives of Nigerian citizens and ensuring a secure environment for the nation’s continued growth and peaceful governance.

  • First Lady mourns victims of Zamfara Islamic school fire

    First Lady mourns victims of Zamfara Islamic school fire

    The First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has extended her condolences to the government and people of Zamfara State, following the tragic fire incident that claimed 17 lives at an Islamic school.

    In a statement, Mrs Tinubu expressed sorrow over the loss and prayed for strength and comfort for the families affected.

    Acknowledging the impact of the incident, she emphasised the need for stricter safety measures in public facilities to prevent similar tragedies.

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    She also extended prayers for the peaceful repose of the victims and hoped for an end to such heart-breaking occurrences across the country.

    “I commiserate with the Governor of Zamfara State, H E Dr Dauda Lawal, and people of Zamfara State on the tragic incident of the fire that gutted the Islamic school where 17 lives were lost.

    “I pray Allah comfort and give the families and loved ones of the departed the fortitude to bear this painful loss.

    “This once again, brings to mind the need for precautionary safety measures in all our public facilities.

    I pray that such will not reoccur not only in Zamfara State, but all over Nigeria.

    “May Allah grant the souls of the departed Aljanah Fridaus,” she added.