●Triumphs and Grace of Nigeria’s First Lady
● Her Inspiring Journey from Lagos State House to Presidential Villa
There is a fire inside Oluremi Tinubu that never seems to burn less. It’s intense, yet innate and skin deep. It burns brilliantly and true, brightening her face and framing the feline girth that shelters her persona. Her lips, like preternatural folds of flesh, serve as furrowed pillows to her speech and windows to dentition that captivates almost too often at first glance. Every first gaze at Nigeria’s First Lady and wife of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, arrests many a looker caught between her carriage and élan.
Sometimes mistaken to be strict, Oluremi is chummier than often imagined. Swathed in attitude and pleasant punch lines masqueraded as sardonic humour, Oluremi, fondly called ‘Remi’ by friends and family, flaunts that rare spark and spiritedness that most women and First Ladies of her ilk suffer a dearth of. …CONTINUE READING
Oluremi, the youngest of twelve children, was born on September 21, 1960, in Ogun State. Her early life in a bustling household instilled in her a sense of resilience and adaptability. Amid the bustle of a large family, she learned the delicate art of balancing personal ambitions with familial responsibilities. Her upbringing was rich in values, emphasizing education, hard work, and compassion—principles that would later define her path.
As a young girl, Oluremi harboured dreams that transcended the confines of her immediate environment. She pursued her education with unwavering determination, earning a National Certificate of Education in Botany and Zoology from Adeyemi College of Education in 1982, followed by a Bachelor’s degree in Biology Education from Obafemi Awolowo University in 1985. Her academic achievements were a testament to her dedication and set the stage for her future endeavors in both public service and philanthropy.
The Spark of Love
The spark within her soul shines brilliantly today as it did in her youth. It was the lure that ensnared and kept on the leash of love, former Lagos State Governor and founder of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Ahmed Tinubu to her, back when they were in their youth.
“The first thing to know is that attraction brought the two of us together. Though I didn’t remember who he was any more, my sister tried to remind me. I saw his eyes and thought he has very kind eyes. That was one of the things that attracted me to him. I believe that from the eyes, one can know the mind of a person. I think he got me with his eyes; they were very kind and penetrating eyes and that was how we started. He was serious about his job and had lofty plans about the future. He didn’t say things you would hear from most guys when he met me. He just said: ‘I don’t have a lot of money, but I love to help people.’ So I thought that we had to cut the chase and was ready to settle down for the real business. I just thought that somebody was trying to introduce me to a journey and I concluded that it was a journey I wanted to be part of. I am generous in my own little way and from that angle, I thought it would be quite interesting to go along with,” said Oluremi in an interview.
This shared journey has enriched both their lives, with Oluremi standing by her husband through every trial and triumph. Unlike many celebrity marriages, their relationship is marked by genuine affection and mutual respect. Their public displays of affection, like the kiss shared after the APC’s victory, are heartfelt and uncontrived. Their union, a tapestry woven with threads of love, respect, and mutual goals, has been a cornerstone of Oluremi’s growth into a leader in her own right.
The Lioness Emerges
Oluremi’s evolution into a formidable leader is akin to the lioness’s role in the pride—nurturing, protective, and fiercely loyal. Her beauty and poise are matched by an inner fire that drives her to excel in every role she undertakes. Her journey from a beautiful young woman with dreams of greatness to a revered First Lady and Senator is nothing short of inspiring.
Her tenure as First Lady of Lagos State from 1999 to 2007 was marked by her unwavering commitment to social causes. She founded the New Era Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to youth development, girl-child education, and women empowerment. Through her foundation, she initiated numerous programs that have had a lasting impact on the lives of many. Her work transcends traditional philanthropic efforts, blending advocacy with hands-on involvement, much like a lioness fiercely protecting and nurturing her cubs.
Foundations of Excellence
Oluremi holds a National Certificate of Education in Botany and Zoology from Adeyemi College of Education and a Bachelor’s degree in Biology Education from Obafemi Awolowo University. Her tenure as First Lady of Lagos State (1999-2007) saw her establish the New Era Foundation, dedicated to youth development, girl-child education, and women empowerment.
Her philanthropic efforts are vast and varied, from providing relief materials to troubled zones to laying bricks for homeless shelters. She has authored several publications, including an autobiography, “The Journey of Grace – My FaithWalk.” Her commitment to education is further exemplified by her contributions to the construction of school buildings in Liberia and the donation of a science block to Adeyemi College of Education. These acts of generosity highlight her belief in the transformative power of education, a belief that continues to shape her legacy.
A Political Powerhouse
In 2011, Oluremi contested and won the Senatorial seat for Lagos Central, a feat she repeated in 2015. Her rise in politics is often attributed to her husband’s influence, yet those close to the couple recognize her own formidable shrewdness and judiciousness. Her contributions to her husband’s success are significant, making the maxim “Behind every successful man is a woman” truly resonate in their lives.
As a Senator, Oluremi has been a vocal advocate for social justice and gender equality. She has sponsored several bills aimed at improving the lives of Nigerians, particularly the elderly and the underprivileged. Her legislative efforts reflect her deep understanding of the challenges faced by her constituents and her unwavering commitment to addressing these issues. Her ability to navigate the complex political landscape with grace and determination has earned her respect and admiration both within and outside Nigeria.
Champion of Social Causes
Oluremi’s legislative efforts include a Bill to provide social security for Nigeria’s elderly citizens and the Elderly Citizens’ Assistance Scheme. She has launched several educational initiatives, including the Post-Secondary School Scholarship Scheme and the Petty Traders Empowerment Capital Scheme. Her contributions extend beyond Nigeria, with donations to educational causes in Liberia and beyond.
Her dedication to social causes is also evident in her work with various organizations and individuals. She initiated the “One Church Musical Youth Fiesta” to discover new talents and provide a platform for young people to showcase their abilities. Her commitment to empowering the next generation is unwavering, and she continues to inspire and support young people in their pursuits. Her work in this area is a testament to her belief in the potential of every individual to achieve greatness with the right support and opportunities.
A Family Bond
Oluremi’s family ties run deep. She shares a close bond with her sister, Hon. Lola Akande, forged through years of sibling love and rivalry. Her father, a significant influence in her life, instilled in her the leadership traits she exhibits today. Her husband and children remain her source of strength and inspiration.
Her family has always been a source of support and motivation for Oluremi. Her relationship with her sister, Hon. Lola Akande, is particularly noteworthy. Despite their sibling rivalries, they have always stood by each other, a bond that has only strengthened over the years. This close-knit family dynamic has played a crucial role in shaping Oluremi’s character and values, and it continues to influence her work and her approach to life.
An Indomitable Spirit
Senator Oluremi Tinubu embodies the lioness spirit—resilient, nurturing, and fiercely loyal. Her contributions to education, social causes, and political discourse continue to inspire. Her life is a celebration of service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to her principles.
Her journey is not just about personal success; it is about making a difference in the lives of others. She has dedicated her life to serving her community and her country, always striving to create a better future for the next generation. Her work is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and compassion, and she continues to inspire others with her unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.
Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the Lioness of Bourdillon, stands as a beacon of inspiring womanhood and leadership. Her journey from a starry-eyed dreamer to a formidable First Lady and Senator reflects her unwavering dedication to her family, her country, and her ideals. In the pride of Nigeria, she is truly a lioness—strong, nurturing, and unparalleled in her grace and poise. Her life is a testament to the power of dreams, the strength of character, and the impact of dedicated service.
