President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has celebrated his wife, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, on her 66th birthday, describing her as his “truest friend and confidante” and praising her steadfast support throughout their years together.
In a birthday message issued by the State House, President Tinubu said the First Lady had stood by him with “patience, grace and uncommon courage” through the different stages of their lives.
Recalling the Yoruba saying, “Ìyàwó rere ni adé ọkọ rẹ̀” — meaning a good wife is her husband’s crown — Tinubu said Oluremi had given the saying practical meaning in his life.
According to the President, the First Lady had remained a source of counsel and strength, particularly during periods of uncertainty and difficult decisions.
He said her willingness to speak honestly with him, even when the truth was difficult to hear, was one of the qualities he valued most in their relationship.
“More often than not, you sense when I need counsel before I ask,” Tinubu said, adding that there were times when her presence alone was enough to provide reassurance.
The President also praised Oluremi’s role in raising their children and grandchildren, saying the family had benefited from her devotion, prayers, faith and values of kindness.
Beyond the family, Tinubu highlighted the First Lady’s humanitarian activities, citing her involvement in initiatives including the New Era Foundation and the Renewed Hope Initiative.
He said her interventions had touched the lives of young people, widows, elderly citizens and women farmers, while also providing advocacy and support for people affected by tuberculosis and other diseases.
Tinubu described her compassion as extending beyond ethnic, regional and religious boundaries, noting that she had supported people she had never met personally.
Reflecting on their years together, the President said their journey had been marked by difficult decisions, sacrifices, laughter and prayer.
He said that if given the opportunity to return to the beginning of his life, he would make the same choice that ultimately led him to Oluremi.
“If life returned me to the beginning, I would choose the same road that led me to you,” the President said.
Tinubu thanked the First Lady for the life they had built together and prayed that God would grant her many more years in good health and happiness.
“Happy 66th birthday, my darling Oluremi,” he said, wishing her continued comfort and joy in the years ahead.
