President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid tribute to his wife, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, as she marks her 66th birthday, describing her as his closest companion, trusted adviser and “truest friend and confidante.”
The President shared the birthday message on his verified X account on Monday, reflecting on the years they have spent together and praising the First Lady for the patience, courage, compassion and support she has shown throughout their marriage.
Tinubu said Oluremi had remained beside him through various phases of his personal and public life, sharing his challenges, offering counsel and providing emotional strength whenever circumstances became difficult.
In his tribute, the President referenced a Yoruba proverb that celebrates the importance of a good wife, saying, “Àwọn àgbà sọ pé, ‘Ìyàwó rere ni adé ọkọ rẹ̀.’ A good wife is her husband’s crown.”
According to Tinubu, Oluremi has demonstrated the qualities associated with a virtuous woman through her commitment to their family and her ability to remain supportive during challenging periods.
He recalled moments when responsibilities weighing heavily on him were also shared by his wife, saying she often understood his concerns even when he struggled to express them.
“The burdens that were mine to bear often found their way onto your shoulders. The thoughts I could not put into words somehow found their way to you,” the President said.
Tinubu added that during periods of uncertainty, Oluremi remained composed and offered him support through prayer and companionship.
He particularly praised her honesty, saying she was willing to tell him the truth even when it was not necessarily what he wanted to hear.
“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 said.
Beyond their relationship as husband and wife, Tinubu highlighted Oluremi’s contribution to their family, particularly her role in raising their children and grandchildren.
He said her commitment to faith, kindness and family values had left a lasting influence on their children and grandchildren, who, according to him, continue to carry those principles into their own lives.
The President also used the occasion to recognise the First Lady’s humanitarian work. He recalled her involvement with the New Era Foundation during their years in Lagos and her current activities through the Renewed Hope Initiative.
Tinubu said Oluremi’s humanitarian efforts had touched the lives of several groups, including young people, widows, elderly Nigerians and women involved in farming.
“Nigerians know you for your compassion, kindness, generosity of spirit and steadfast faith,” he said, adding that he had witnessed her quietly supporting people facing difficult circumstances.
The President further acknowledged her advocacy on health-related issues, including efforts supporting people affected by tuberculosis and other diseases. He described her as a committed advocate whose concern for vulnerable people extends beyond social, ethnic, regional and religious divisions.
Tinubu said the years he and Oluremi had spent together had been shaped by shared sacrifices, difficult decisions, conversations and moments of joy.
He noted that their journey had reinforced his appreciation of the value of having a dependable partner through life’s challenges.
“A long journey teaches a man the true value of a good partner. We have travelled a long road together,” he said.
Reflecting on their relationship, Tinubu said that if he had the opportunity to start his life over again, he would still choose Oluremi as his partner.
“If life returned me to the beginning, I would choose the same road that led me to you,” the President said, adding that his heart had remained with her throughout their journey.
Tinubu concluded his tribute by praying for his wife’s continued wellbeing and happiness, wishing her many more years of life.
“Happy 66th birthday, my darling Oluremi. I pray that God Almighty will grant you many more years in good health and joy,” he said.
