ABUJA — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Sunday paid a deeply personal tribute to his wife, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, as she marked her 66th birthday on Monday, September 21, 2026, describing her as the woman who has walked beside him with patience, grace and uncommon courage.
In a heartfelt message issued ahead of the milestone, the President addressed her affectionately as “Oluremi mi” and reflected on their decades together. “Today, I celebrate the woman who has walked beside me with patience, grace and uncommon courage,” Tinubu wrote.
He quoted a Yoruba proverb — “Àwọn àgbà sọ pé, ‘Ìyàwó rere ni adé ọkọ rẹ̀’” (A good wife is her husband’s crown) — and referenced the Book of Proverbs on the worth of a virtuous woman.
The President praised his wife for carrying burdens that were often his to bear and for sensing when he needed counsel even before he asked. “Through all these years, you have remained the one who truly understands me,” he said.
“I call you my truest friend and confidante because you speak the truth plainly, even on the days I would rather not hear it.” He noted that after demanding days she waits until they are alone to tell him what he needs to hear, adding that he has always cherished her honesty.
Tinubu highlighted her compassion, kindness, generosity of spirit and steadfast faith, saying these qualities are known to Nigerians. He recalled that their home bears the lasting imprint of her devotion, with their children and grandchildren growing under the shelter of her prayers and carrying her values of faith and kindness. “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,” the President declared.
He concluded by thanking her for the life and love they have built together and prayed for many more years of good health and joy. “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. With all my love.”
Born on September 21, 1960, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has served as First Lady of Nigeria since May 2023. She previously held the role of First Lady of Lagos State (1999–2007) and represented Lagos Central in the Senate for three terms (2011–2023).
She is widely recognised for her philanthropic work, particularly through the Renewed Hope Initiative focused on women, children and vulnerable groups.
Tributes also poured in from state governors and other public figures. Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu described her as an “Amazon” and dependable mother of the nation who has dedicated nearly three decades to public service. Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun and others similarly celebrated her as a pillar of support to the President and a champion of humanitarian causes.
The President’s message underscored a private yet public expression of appreciation as the First Lady entered her 66th year.
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