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Tag: Oluremi Tinubu

  • First Lady reaffirms commitment to ending FGM in Nigeria

    First Lady reaffirms commitment to ending FGM in Nigeria

    The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has reaffirmed her commitment to advocating for stronger action against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Nigeria.

    Mrs. Tinubu spoke yesterday in Abuja in commemoration of this year’s International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM.

    She called for sustained efforts and collaboration to eradicate the harmful tradition, saying it threatens the well-being of millions of girls and women.

    Nigeria has the highest absolute number of FGM cases globally, with over 20 million women and girls affected, according to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

    Projections indicate that if urgent action is not taken, an additional 14 million girls in the country could be at risk by 2030.

    Despite the progress the country has made through government initiatives and partnerships with international organisations, the civil society, and traditional institutions, the First Lady said there is a need to do more for Nigeria to eradicate the practice.

    Read Also: Sanwo-Olu’s wife, Fashola, Adebule others grace book launch on late Ajose

    Mrs. Tinubu described FGM as a violation of human rights with no medical benefits, underscoring the broader impact of gender-based violence on the society.

    “Violence against women is not just a women’s issue but an issue against humanity,” she said, adding that such harmful practices erode shared values of respect and dignity.

    This year’s theme: Stepping Up the Pace: Strengthening Alliances and Building Movements to End FGM, seeks renewed commitment, stronger partnerships, and greater investment in ending the practice.

    The First Lady highlighted the importance of uniting efforts across sectors, empowering survivors, and ensuring that young people and women take the lead in driving change.

    She also emphasised the need for continued advocacy, particularly in rural communities where FGM remains deeply entrenched.

    Traditional and religious leaders, Mrs. Tinubu said, play a crucial role in shifting mindsets and reinforcing the message that the practice has no place in modern society.

    Reaffirming the administration’s dedication to eliminating FGM, the First Lady promised to continue pushing for the necessary support to sustain the fight.

    “The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to ending FGM, and I will continue to advocate for the necessary support,” she said.

    According to her, all stakeholders need to unite their voices, recognising that collective strength is the key to success.

    “Together, we will strengthen the movement against FGM by building alliances, empowering survivors, and ensuring that youth and women lead the charge,” Mrs. Tinubu added.

    The First Lady called for relentless efforts to protect the rights and dignity of girls and women, reaffirming the hope for a future where FGM is eradicated.

  • First Lady inaugurates OAFLAD campaign against HIV/AIDS in Africa

    First Lady inaugurates OAFLAD campaign against HIV/AIDS in Africa

    • 1.5m HIV/AIDS patients got treatment, says Health minister

    The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, yesterday launched the Free to Shine Campaign, an initiative of the Organisation of African First Ladies (OAFLAD) to end new HIV and syphilis infections and protect children and women in Nigeria.

    During the event, which held in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, Senator Tinubu said the campaign was designed to significantly reduce the number of new HIV and other new infections among women of reproductive age, prevent mother-to-child transmission, and guarantee that every child born with HIV gets the necessary treatment and support to survive.

    The First Lady noted that Nigeria shared the highest HIV burden in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly among the youth, women, and children, adding that this was partly as a result of the rise in population.

    “To complement the Free to Shine campaign, I have also decided to advocate for the triple elimination of HIV, syphilis and hepatitis. This campaign will be held across the six geopolitical zones of the nation,” she said.

    The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammed Ali Pate, said the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration had spent a lot of money on testing and treatment for many Nigerians with HIV/AIDS, syphilis and hepatitis.

    The minister said at least 1.5 million HIV/AIDS patients in Nigeria were under treatment.

    He said statistics indicated that tremendous progress was being made when compared to what obtained in the early 2000s.

    The Country Representative for World Health Organisation (WHO), Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, said the campaign aligned with the 78-point resolutions of member-states with commitment to the 2022-2030 Global Health Strategies.

    For the three diseases to be effectively eliminated, he said all stakeholders must pay attention to comprehensive prevention, testing, and treatment services for women, children, and their families.

    UNICEF Country Representative, Ms. Cristian Munduate, said the global body was proud of Nigeria’s dedication to HIV/AIDS elimination over the years.

    She pledged UNICEF’s continued support and robust partnership to eliminate the diseases, especially the mother-to-child transmission.

    Governor AbdulRaman AbdulRazaq hailed the First Lady for championing the OAFLAD Free to Shine Campaign to end new infections in children and ensure that mothers stayed alive.

    “Three days ago, we received reports about a significant shift in global HIV/AIDS policies and funding. This change will have far-reaching effects in Africa, and we must act swiftly to minimise its impact on millions of Africans living with HIV,” he said.

    The governor pledged the support of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), which he chairs, to raise awareness, mobilise resources, and ensure that people living with HIV receive the care they need to live healthy, productive lives.

    The governor’s wife, Prof. Olufolake AbdulRazaq, described the “Free to Shine” campaign as a fine strategy for co-leading a continental effort to end new HIV infections in children and keep mothers alive.

    She praised the OAFLAD and the African Union for adopting it.

    Mrs. AbdulRazaq acknowledged the outstanding roles of African First Ladies, particularly Senator Tinubu, for raising awareness and harnessing political commitment to HIV/AIDS response and the broader health and development agenda on the continent.

    Senator Tinubu ended her three-day working visit to Kwara State with a tour of a garment factory in Ilorin, another signature project of Governor AbdulRazaq.

    Read Also: HIV/AIDS remains dangerous to life, says NDDC, holds free medical tests

    She interacted with workers at the factory, telling them to make the most of the governor’s foresight by working hard.

    “What your governor has done is to create opportunities for enterprise and productive engagement of youths and women. I want you to work hard and become successful. I’m here purposely to encourage you to make this a huge success for yourself and for your state,” she said in Yoruba.

    The First Lady later gave the workers N20,000 each for “your lunch”.

    The First Lady had visited the Sugar Factory Film Studio, praising the governor for his transformative agenda and pledging a donation of N350 million to support the production of a movie inspired by local cultural legacies and values.

    Her aircraft left the tarmac of Gen. Tunde Idiagbon International Airport at exactly 2:22 p.m., followed shortly by the wife of the Vice President, Nana Shettima, and other members of her entourage.

  • First Lady unveils foundation stone of Oluremi Tinubu hospital, distributes 10,00 kits to Kwara midwives

    First Lady unveils foundation stone of Oluremi Tinubu hospital, distributes 10,00 kits to Kwara midwives

    Kwara Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq is an outstanding leader and amazing achiever who has done exceptionally well for his people, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu said on Wednesday as her visit to the state capital entered the second day.

    Joined by the wife of the Vice President Nana Shettima, Nigeria Governors’ Forum Chairman, his wife Amb. Olufolake Abdulrazaq and several other first ladies from across the country, the day began with the First Lady flagging off the distribution of 10,000 professional kits to midwives in the North Central region.

    Next to that was her launching of the General Tunde Idiagbon Flyover in Ilorin — a gesture the widow of the no-nonsense late general Cecilia Idiagbon said was memorable and reflective of Governor Abdulrazaq’s respect for history. 

    Senator Tinubu later visited the Innovation Hub, a facility that is designed to be Kwara’s version of the Silicon Valley to raise generations of techies and build skills that resolve local developmental challenges. 

    “I am so, so glad with what I have seen. This is truly amazing, and I am going back home to tell the President what I have seen. You (Governor) are a man truly in love with your people. You have really done so well,” she said as the Managing Director of the Hub Temi Kolawole took her through the mandate of the multibilion naira facility while the Governor and his wife sat next to her.

    Read Also: Oluremi Tinubu best First Lady Ihave known in politics – Uzodimma

    The sight of the facility triggered a brief conversation around her setting up a “Dream Centre”, which she said is an idea she hopes would give talented underprivileged children a platform to shine and rule their world. 

    “What I have seen here is borne out of a clear dream about where the Governor wants his people to be. This dream is coming alive…. We can stay here forever. You have enough projects to showcase, and I am indeed very proud of you,” the Senator said. 

    Her motorcade then headed to the site of the Senator Oluremi Tinubu Hospital, the foundation stone of which she unveiled. 

    Designed to be a multi-storey building, the hospital is rising from the ashes of the old civil service clinic in the GRA and is meant to offer premium healthcare services for the people of the state and beyond, according to the Commissioner for Health Dr. Amina Ahmed el-Imam. 

    The First Lady then officially opened the Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari Flyover in downtown Ilorin — named after the revered Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Council of Chiefs. 

    The General Tunde Idiagbon Flyover is 562m long, while the Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari Flyover stretches across 457.4 metres — both of them adding to the road networks which reduce travel time and the aesthetics of the capital city. 

    Senator Tinubu immediately proceeded to the Sugar Factory Film Studio, another legacy project of the Abdulrazaq administration, wrapping up the day’s activities. 

    Speaking at the distribution of professional kits for midwives, Senator Tinubu commended the Governor and his wife for the top-quality hospitality accorded her and her entourage.

    “This is the standard we want to see in other states. This is truly amazing. Everything we have seen is of very good quality. Despite the short notice, the hospitality is amazing, and I want other First Ladies to copy this as a template,” she said.

    Speaking on the kits presented to midwives, she said: “This is to complement the ongoing federal government’s retraining exercise of 120,000 frontline health workers nationwide. I am informed that the 54,346,000 health workers have already completed their training, and that is why the Renewed Hope Initiatives (RHI) procured 60,000 branded scrubs and 60,000 crocs as incentives to encourage and support the tireless dedication of our midwives,” she said.

    “All the six geopolitical zones will be receiving 10,000 crocs and 10,000 scrubs to be shared among the states in the region. We will be visiting other states for the allocation of these items.

    “Tomorrow by the grace of God, I will be launching the free to shine and triple elimination campaigns of HIV, Hepatitis and Syphilis also here in Kwara state.”

    Governor Abdulrazaq commended the First Lady for the humanitarian gestures, saying: “The kits will not only ensure that our health workers are well-equipped to perform their duties but also send a strong message of solidarity and hope to those who are devoted to protecting the health of our mothers and children.

    “These dedicated men and women deserve our full support, and this gesture by Her Excellency is a clear reflection of the commitment to their welfare and safety.” 

    Mrs AbdulRazaq, in her remarks, said the initiative by the First Lady exemplifies her commitment to the welfare and professionalism of midwives across the nation, and praised her for her service to humanity.

    “We are confident that these kits will significantly enhance the quality of maternal and child healthcare services in our zone,” she said.

    Minister of State for Health Dr Iziaq Adekunle Salako said midwives play vital roles in preventing maternal and perinatal death, and are most times the only skilled health professionals available in communities.

    He described the event as a significant step to strengthen the capacity of midwives and advance the goals of sustainable development. 

    Executive Director National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA) Dr Muyi Aina, who highlighted some of the achievements of the agency, said the professional kits will strengthen the work of the midwives. 

    He applauded the First Lady’s strong support for maternal health. 

  • First Lady’s RHI disburses N50m cash to 1,000 petty traders in Kwara

    First Lady’s RHI disburses N50m cash to 1,000 petty traders in Kwara

    The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, yesterday presented N50 million cash grant to 1,000 women petty traders in Kwara State.

    Senator Tinubu announced the cash grant yesterday in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, during the inauguration of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) community ICT centre.

    The centre was established is in collaboration with the First Lady’s pet project, the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), under its Social Investment Programme (SIP).

    Mrs. Tinubu said: “In the spirit of today’s event, the Renewed Hope Initiative, under the RHI Economic Empowerment scope, will be presenting a grant of N50 million to the First Lady of the state and RHI State Coordinator to support another set of 1,000 women petty traders with the sum of N50,000 each to recapitalize their existing businesses.

    “We had earlier empowered 1,000 women petty traders on August 22, 2024.

    “Under the RHI Social Investment programme, 250 elderly citizens were given a grant of N200,000 each on December 17, 2024 to celebrate the Yuletide season. In addition, the RHI, under its Education Programme, is collaborating with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) to build an Alternative High School for Girls in Kwara State.

    “This is to provide another opportunity to access education for girls and women who dropped out of school due to early pregnancies, child marriages and other socio-economic reasons.

    “Also, Kwara State has been nominated to benefit from the construction of a model Early Childhood Care Development Education (ECCDE) centre, which will be built in Ilorin. As part of the fruit of our collaboration with the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), the Kwara State University is to benefit from the establishment of an ICT Experience Centre.

    Read Also: $360m Ogoni cleanup: Senate gives HYPREP’s boss seven days to appear or risk arrest

    “Also, under our RHI Agriculture Programme, women and young farmers will benefit from the N68.9 million Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security Support grant.

    “This grant has been made available to Kwara State through the First Lady and RHI State Coordinator, who will be responsible for the implementation of the Women Agricultural Support Programme (WASP), Youth Agricultural Support Programme, Every Home A Garden and Young Farmers’ Club of the Renewed Hope Initiative.”

    She added: “So far, NITDA has constructed four community ICT centres. This centre we are inaugurating today is the second, while Benue and Oyo centres are ready to be inaugurated soon.

    “Other digital economy centres have also been fully equipped with computers and other ICT materials in five states, namely: Jigawa, Ebonyi, Cross River, Oyo, Niger, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

    “Ten additional digital economy centres in Abia, Edo, Delta, Ondo, Kano, Katsina, Lagos, Nasarawa, Yobe, and Zamfara are also being fully equipped with ICT materials and will be ready for inauguration soon. 

    “By equipping themselves with ICT skills, women and girls can enhance their educational prospects, be self-reliant, participate in the global economy, and support their families.

    “Therefore, today’s inauguration presents us with another opportunity under the mandate of the Ministry of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy to further expand digital access to our citizens by providing communities with the resources they require to develop ICT skills.

    “This is in line with the priority area of the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to accelerate economic diversification through industrialisation and digitalisation.”

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s wife, Lady Olufolake AbdulRazaq, noted that the inauguration “speaks to the many engagements and partnerships of Senator Tinubu towards ensuring that Nigerians are adequately supported in the pursuit of their goals and improving livelihoods of the most indigent to complement the efforts of Mr. President Tinubu and the Federal Government in this regard.”

  • Nigerian youth embody an indomitable spirit – First Lady 

    Nigerian youth embody an indomitable spirit – First Lady 

    …commissions NYSC Digital Museum, Television Studio

    First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has commended the resilience and innovation of Nigerian youth, asserting that their indomitable spirit is admired globally. 

    Speaking on Thursday at the commissioning of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Digital Museum of Dynamic History and Television Studio in Abuja, she praised the contributions of young Nigerians to national development.

    In a statement issued by her spokesperson, Busola Kukoyi, the First Lady said: “The Nigerian youth embody an indomitable spirit that the world admires; a spirit of resilience, innovation, and boundless energy. 

    “Whether facing challenges or opportunities, Nigerian youth rise with unshakable determination, proving that their strength lies in unity and the promise of a brighter tomorrow for our nation. I celebrate you all”, she said.

    The First Lady highlighted the significance of the Digital Museum and Television Studio, describing them as tools for preserving the NYSC’s legacy and promoting civic education. 

    She emphasized the scheme’s role in fostering national unity and its impact on various sectors since its establishment in 1973.

    Read Also; FULL LIST: Addresses of NYSC orientation camps in Nigeria

    “This digital museum represents the various interventions of NYSC members, who through their selfless service, have left indelible marks across diverse sectors—pioneering innovations in science and technology, advancing agricultural development, improving healthcare delivery, and championing human rights.

    “By embracing technology in this initiative, the NYSC has aligned itself with global best practices, ensuring that the lessons and legacy of the scheme are accessible to all”, she noted. 

    The museum and studio, located within the NYSC Directorate headquarters, also serve as a testament to the creativity and determination of the Nigerian youth. 

    The First Lady stressed that studying history is vital to understanding the present and shaping the future. 

    “History is at the cornerstone of our national development. When we study the past, we can better understand the present and forge new paths for the future,” she added.

    In his remarks, the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande applauded the First Lady for her various contributions to youth development in the nation especially through her Initiative, the Renewed Hope Initiative, RHI.

    He described the Nigerian youth as committed and hardworking adding that the youth should carry on the legacy of  the NYSC and do researches to further promote the facility and indeed national development.

    The Minister explained that the facilities were built with determination of the NYSC leadership adding that edifice showcases that the scheme has moved forward, aligning with global trends. 

    “It is a total success, this facility will serve as a virtuous success for the history and story, innovation, and contribution of our youth over the years”.

    The Director General of the NYSC Brig. Gen YD Ahmed said that the Museum and TV studio are not merely a repository of artifacts but a dynamic chronicle of Nigeria shared history, values, and aspirations as a nation.

    He said the NYSC museum is intended to show the rich legacy of the scheme and our nation Nigeria.

    The highlight of the commissioning was the live interview granted the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu in the newly commissioned TV studio.

  • Oluremi Tinubu visits Gov Namadi, wife over son’s death

    Oluremi Tinubu visits Gov Namadi, wife over son’s death

    The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has paid a condolence visit to the Governor of Jigawa State Umar Namadi and his wife Hadiza over the death of their son, Abdulwahab.

    Accompanied by the wife of the Vice President Nana Shettima and wife of the Speaker of the House of Representatives Fatima Abass, Senator Tinubu said the length of time one would live on earth is exclusively reserved for God and no man can question him.

    A statement issued by her media aide, Busola Kukoyi, yesterday quoted her as saying: “God owns us all. God assigned time to us all. He can call anyone home at any time.

    “God will console you and the entire state. I pray my next visit here will be a joyous one.”

    In his brief remarks, Governor Namadi thanked the First Lady for the personal visit which he noted was the highest level of condolence.

    Read Also: Oluremi Tinubu best First Lady Ihave known in politics – Uzodimma

    He said the death of his son and that of his mother, which occurred a day earlier, was an act of God which he and his family cannot question.

    The governor expressed his gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, who he said put a call through to him personally when the incidents occurred just as the First Lady did.

    Prayers were offered for the family and the state by the wife of the Vice President.

    The governor’s mother, Maryam Namadi, died on Wednesday, December 25 due to illness while his son, Abdulwahab, died on Thursday, December 26 in a car accident at the age of 24.

  • First Lady gives out 22,800 bags of rice to North’s Christians

    First Lady gives out 22,800 bags of rice to North’s Christians

    First Lady Oluremi Tinubu yesterday brought relief to vulnerable Christians in the North ahead of Christmas celebration.

    She donated 22,800 bags of rice as palliatives.

    She also made available N5 million to each of the 19 states for ease of transportation of the item.

    Each of the states will get 1,200 bags of rice.

    Senator Tinubu made the consignment available in Kaduna at an event attended by Governors Dikko Radda (Katsina); Hyacinth Alia (Benue); Mai Mala Buni (Yobe) and the host Uba Sani (Kaduna).

    Read Also: Tinubu’s vision for the livestock sector will unlock vast potential – Minister 

    Senator Tinubu thanked the Northern Christian Political Forum for their warm reception and recalled a similar initiative she and the Vice President’s wife, Hajiya Nana Shettima, undertook in Imo State.

    She emphasized gratitude, saying, “I thank you for believing in this journey even when political challenges arose. We as Christians know that ingratitude is a great sin. When Jesus healed the 10 lepers, only one returned to give thanks, and Jesus asked, ‘Where are the other nine?’”

    The First Lady also acknowledged several key figures, including the wife of the Vice President, the wife of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hajiya Fatima Abbas; the wife of the Deputy Senate President, Hajiya Miriam Barau; the Minister of Agriculture Sen. Abubakar Kyari and his wife; the wife of the Minister of Transport; wife of Minister of State for Trade and Investment, Mrs. Rachel Owan-Enoh  and the wife of the Inspector-General of Police, Mrs. Elizabeth Egbetokun.

    Governor Sani described Senator Tinubu as a caring and compassionate mother of the nation. He praised her for her dedication to humanity, highlighting her social intervention programmes during her time as Lagos State’s First Lady and her impactful legislative work in the 9th Senate.

    “Her life is one devoted to the service of humanity. Her generosity knows no bounds,” he said.

    The Governor added that as First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Tinubu has continued her efforts to uplift the underprivileged through initiatives like the Renewed Hope Schemes for the Elderly and Women. He also noted that the distribution of palliatives aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to alleviating hardship.

    “Our dear President is a listening leader who hears the cries of the people and takes steps to address economic challenges. The future looks bright,” he added.

    Governor Sani highlighted his administration’s efforts to support the vulnerable through financial inclusion programmes, social intervention initiatives, and the Kaduna Peace Model, which has become a reference point for conflict resolution in other states.

    He urged the people of Kaduna State to use the festive season to foster peace and unity, adding, “Our dear state has bounced back to reckoning. Let us consolidate the prevailing peaceful atmosphere.”

  • First Lady mourns victims of Ibadan stampede

    First Lady mourns victims of Ibadan stampede

    First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic stampede that occurred in Ibadan, Oyo State, claiming 35 lives and leaving six others injured. 

    The incident, which took place during a fanfare event for children on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, has left the nation in mourning.

    In a condolence message addressed to Governor Seyi Makinde and the people of Oyo State, Mrs. Tinubu extended her heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved families, friends, and loved ones of the deceased. 

    She described the loss of life, particularly among children, as a devastating blow to the state and the country as a whole.

    “I condole with the Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency Engineer Seyi Makinde, and the people of Oyo State on the tragedy that occurred on Wednesday, 18th of December 2024, where the lives of many children were lost in a stampede.

    “I sympathize with the family friends, and loved ones of the deceased”, the First Lady said.

    Read Also: President Tinubu committed to Nigeria’s growth – aide

    She also offered prayers for the speedy recovery of those injured in the incident, emphasizing the need for hope and healing in the face of such a heartbreaking occurrence.

    “I also pray for speedy recovery and total healing for those who are still in the hospital.

    “May the Lord grant peace to Oyo State, comfort to the families who have lost their loved ones, and hope to those grieving at this time. 

    “My heartfelt condolences to all those affected by this devastating incident”, she added. 

    The stampede, which has drawn widespread condolences and calls for improved crowd control measures at public events, remains under investigation by authorities in the state. 

  • First Lady’s empowerment programme provides for the elderly

    First Lady’s empowerment programme provides for the elderly

    About 250 elderly Lagosians have got N200,000 each at the launch of the second Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS) of First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.

    The First Lady noted importance of ensuring a ‘Total Wellness: Happy, Healthy, and Prosperous Lifestyle’ for elderly Nigerians.

    Mrs. Tinubu, represented by wife of Lagos State Governor, Mrs. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu and State Coordinator of RHI, explained that RHIESS reaffirmed Mrs. Tinubu’s commitment to improving welfare of senior citizens.

    She noted that the disbursement of N200,000 each, and other gift items to 250 elderly beneficiaries, aged 65 and above, represents an increase in the grant from N100,000 to N200,000 per recipient.

    Highlighting the scope of the initiative, Senator Tinubu announced that N1.9 billion would be disbursed nationwide to bring joy during Yuletide to the beneficiaries.

    “I commend our state first ladies, RHI State coordinators, and partners. This underscores Federal Government’s commitment to prioritising their well-being,” she said.

    Read Also: 2027 elections: Ganduje tasks APC members to secure Tinubu’s re-election

    The First Lady encouraged beneficiaries to maintain their health by eating nutritious food, stay hydrated, engage in light exercises, and spending time with loved ones.

    “As we celebrate, I urge you to prioritise your health, do what makes you happy, and enjoy with family and friends,” she advised.

    In supporting the initiative, Mrs. Sanwo-Olu, in partnership with the Lagos State Health Management (LASHMA) registered the beneficiaries for one year free healthcare in any hospitals service registered with LASHMA.

    Beneficiaries were also educated about LASHMA, how to manage their health, and they were also screened for blood pressure, eye tests, etc.

    One of the beneficiaries, Alhaja Mojisola Alabi, thanked the First Lady.

       Also, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa have been commended for giving succour to elderly men and women in the state.

    Many beneficiaries smiled home with N200,000.

    They prayed for the First Lady and Aiyedatiwa, eulogising the empowerment, organised by Ministry of Women Affairs.

    Special Assistant to the governor on Women Mobilisation, Mrs. Bayo Aina, thanked Mrs. Tinubu and the governor for the kind gesture.

  • First Lady initiative lifts 9,500 elderly citizens with N1.9b

    First Lady initiative lifts 9,500 elderly citizens with N1.9b

    First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, through her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), has disbursed N1.9 billion to 9,500 elderly citizens nationwide.

    The second edition of the RHI Elderly Support Scheme (RHEISS) was held simultaneously across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) yesterday.

    Reaffirming her commitment to the welfare of elderly Nigerians, the First Lady announced a significant increase in the support grant to N200,000 per beneficiary.

    In a statement by her Senior Special Assistant on Media, Busola Kukoyi, Senator Tinubu said: “The Governing Board of the Renewed Hope Initiative has decided to increase the grant from N100,000 to N200,000 this year to provide further support to our elderly citizens during this festive season.”

    The initiative with the theme: “Total wellness – happy, healthy, and prosperous lifestyle,” aims to support elderly Nigerians 65 and above.

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    Each state, the FCT, and the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA) received N50 million, with 250 elderly beneficiaries in each location receiving N200,000.

    The event also included free medical check-ups and the distribution of essential items.

    “This programme is designed to reassure the elderly that they are loved and not forgotten, especially during the festive season,” the First Lady said.

    She urged beneficiaries to prioritise their health and spend quality time with their loved ones.

    “This event, held simultaneously in all the states of the federation, is our way of supporting the welfare of our elderly citizens annually,” she said.

    Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, applauded the First Lady’s initiative and called on Nigerians to support the Tinubu Administration.

    “The President met a lot of rot on the ground when he assumed office, but things are already getting better, and there is light at the end of the tunnel,” Matawalle said.

    He announced additional support from the Ministry of Defence, pledging N200,000 each to 250 veterans in recognition of their service to the nation.

    The event featured health screenings and the distribution of food items.

    Beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the initiative, describing it as a timely and impactful gesture during the festive season.

    In Lafia, Nasarawa State, the wife of the governor, Hajiya Salifat Sule, also donated 250 wrappers to the beneficiaries across the 13 local government areas.

    Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, hailed Senator Tinubu, saying: “We have a First Lady who cares and means well for this nation.”

    Kogi governor’s wife, Hajia Sefinat Ododo, commended all wives of governors who are RHI state coordinators and partners for their efforts in making the day a reality.

    Some of the beneficiaries in Kogi – Olusegun Ayeniko, Asaje Taiwo, Usman Onalo and Memunat Adama, expressed gratitude to the First Lady for prioritising the well-being of the elderly.

    In Rivers State, Lady Valerie Siminalayi Fubara, said the governor directed the addition of 100 Rivers elders to the list of beneficiaries, bringing the total sum disbursed in the state to N70 million.

    Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister of State, Mariya Mahmoud, said the initiative was a way of expressing gratitude to the elderly.

    She said: “In the fast-paced world we live in, it is essential to pause and appreciate the pillars of our community—the elderly.

    “Their stories, guidance, and enduring spirits have shaped our collective journey.”

    In Zamfara, a beneficiary, Mallam Garba Sa’idu, promised to make judicious use of the money by establishing a small-scale business.