Tag: Lagos State

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Tinubu joins Lagos Eyo parade as festival honours four legends

President Bola Tinubu, on Saturday, joined thousands of Lagos residents and cultural enthusiasts at the grand finale of the 2025 Eyo Festival in Lagos, marking the return of the iconic cultural parade after an eight-year hiatus.

According to a statement issued by the Special Advider to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the colourful event, held at Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos, featured the President dressed in the traditional white robe, damask sash and distinctive hat associated with Eyo masqueraders.

The President also carried the customary opambata staff during the procession after it was presented to him in his Lagos residence on December 21.

The statement noted that this year’s festival honoured four eminent Lagos figures—former military administrator of Lagos State, Brigadier-General Mobolaji Johnson; former Governors Lateef Kayode Jakande and Sir Michael Otedola; and the late Alhaja Abibat Mogaji, former Iyaloja-General and mother of President Tinubu, breaking from the traditional practice of recognising one or three honourees.

In a message sent to organisers, Tinubu described the celebration as “a great rekindling of our culture,” saying the festival underscores the richness of Lagos traditions and the achievements of distinguished Nigerians.

He added that the timing of the festival, coinciding with the festive travel season, highlights the tourism potential of Nigerian cultural heritage.

“The Eyo Festival is a vibrant expression of the rich traditions of Lagos. It celebrates the achievements, outstanding contributions, and exemplary lives of distinguished Nigerians—not only eminent Lagosians,” he said.

The President added that all the honorees deserved the recognition.

He said, “They were leaders and builders whose visionary leadership, influence, and diligence in public service helped nurture Lagos State to both national and international prominence”.

The President also noted the festival’s timing, which coincides with Detty December, a period when Lagos welcomes thousands of Nigerians from the diaspora and foreign visitors.

“It is a reminder that our culture and traditions hold great tourism potential. Indeed, our cultural assets can serve as valuable resources for destination promotion. The glamour of white-robed figures parading our streets in celebration of distinguished Lagosians sends a resounding message about our identity and our country,” he said.

The President encouraged all revellers to celebrate peacefully and ensure the safety of all participants.

In his remark, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said the festival represented a “homecoming” for the President and marked a significant moment in the preservation of Yoruba heritage.

“What we’re celebrating here today is the first of its kind. As our son, our father, we are seated with the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to witness a history of the cultural heritage of Lagos. “Mr President, it is not just a coincidence; it is history in your lifetime that is being put in place today. “We honour you, give God the glory for your life, and we are indeed excited that God Almighty can bring you and most of your people to come and celebrate the best of the cultural heritage of Lagos,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu commended the traditional institutions under the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, for their exemplary leadership in reviving the festival.

“Today, we gather on this historic ground at the Tafawa Balewa Square, wrapped in the timeless majesty of the Eyo Festival, the sacred Adamu Orisha Play.

“After an eight-year interval, this revered tradition returns to Lagos in full splendour, standing as a powerful affirmation of our identity, our resilience, and unbroken connection to our history.

“The Eyo Festival is far more than a pageantry. It is a living archive of our Yoruba heritage and a symbol of unity, a symbol of purity and the communal strength of Lagos,” he said.

The governor assured his audience that his administration will continue to advance the state’s socio-economic trajectory without abandoning its cultural roots.

He said his administration will maximise the festival’s potential as it projects Lagos onto the global stage. (Punch)

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Lagos police recover illegal fireman during stop-and-search in Ishashi

The Lagos State Police Command has said the recovery of a locally made firearm in the Ishashi area underscores its continued reliance on stop-and-search operations as part of broader efforts to prevent crime across the state.

In a statement posted on its official X handle on Friday, the command disclosed that operatives of the Anti-Crime Unit attached to the Ishashi Division recovered a cut-to-size double-barrel firearm and two cartridges during a patrol on Tuesday at about 10:45 p.m.

The police said the recovery was made in the course of a routine stop-and-search operation carried out within the division’s jurisdiction, adding that the operation was led by the Divisional Police Officer.

Reaffirming its position on preventive policing, the command said such measures remain central to disrupting criminal activity before it occurs and strengthening public safety.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Police Force has said recent intelligence-led operations across several states resulted in the arrest of 22 suspects and the recovery of firearms, vehicles, motorcycles, illicit drugs and other items linked to criminal activities.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said the operations were carried out by operatives of the Force Special Tactical Squad and targeted offences ranging from armed robbery and kidnapping to banditry, cattle rustling, impersonation and drug trafficking.

Hundeyin said six firearms were recovered during the operations, including “one LAR rifle, one pump-action gun, one AK-49 rifle, one AK-47 rifle and one SMG rifle, alongside two rounds of live ammunition”. He added that a total of 45 other exhibits were also recovered, comprising vehicles, motorcycles, illicit drugs and items suspected to have been used in committing various crimes.

According to the police, one of the key operations took place along the Kaduna–Abuja Expressway, where operatives intercepted a J5 vehicle conveying 13 brand-new motorcycles, weapons and other incriminating materials. Hundeyin said further investigation led to the arrest of a 35-year-old suspect, Luke Ifeanyi, in connection with alleged armed robbery and economic sabotage.

He also disclosed that, in a separate operation within the Federal Capital Territory, operatives arrested a Kuje Custodial Centre escapee, Ayo Abiodun, who is suspected to have carried out a violent robbery involving a serving Nigerian Army officer.

The police spokesperson said another suspect, 40-year-old Yusuf Shehu, was arrested with a stolen tricycle and was found to be impersonating a police officer. “A police mobile uniform and a police identity card were recovered from him,” Hundeyin said.

He further stated that operatives intercepted a vehicle conveying large quantities of leaves suspected to be cannabis and other controlled substances during routine patrols.

In Edo State, Hundeyin said four suspects were arrested for unlawful possession of prohibited firearms and alleged violent attacks on a community. He added that in Lagos and Ogun states, two suspects linked to a car-snatching syndicate were also apprehended.

The police said investigations into the various cases were ongoing, while efforts were being intensified to dismantle criminal networks operating across the country. (Guardian)

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PDP crisis deepens as pro-Wike NWC sets up caretaker committee in Lagos

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, faction aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has inaugurated a 19-member State Caretaker Committee to oversee the party’s affairs in Lagos State.

The News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, reports that the inauguration followed a fresh twist in the PDP’s ongoing national leadership crisis, after the Wike-backed National Working Committee, NWC, announced the dissolution of some state party executives, including those in Lagos.

The factional NWC is chaired by Alhaji Abdulraman Mohammed, with Senator Samuel Anyanwu serving as National Secretary.

At the ceremony held in Ikeja on Wednesday, the Deputy National Secretary of the factional NWC, Mr Adedeji Doherty, who represented the National Chairman, criticised what he termed blatant disregard for the PDP constitution by some party members.

Doherty, a former Lagos PDP Chairman and governorship candidate, accused certain party leaders among them Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and Chief Olabode George of contributing to the protracted internal crisis.

He said the newly constituted caretaker committee had the backing of “recognised PDP leaders” and urged party members to close ranks to revive the party.

“We are issuing red cards to those hell-bent on destroying the PDP. The PDP is very important to us. Today marks a new chapter in the evolution of democracy and the party.

“We have heard a lot about court judgments and conflicting judgments on who the authentic chairman of the PDP is.

“As far as we are concerned, and as far as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is concerned, the Ibadan National Convention that produced the Tanimu Turaki-led PDP National Working Committee should not have taken place,” he said.

Doherty described the November PDP convention as illegitimate, alleging it was conducted in violation of democratic principles.

According to him, Mohammed remains the lawful National Chairman of the party.

He charged members of the Lagos caretaker committee to strictly comply with the PDP constitution and guidelines, adding that the conduct of party congresses would commence in January.

“I want the new caretaker committee to be so guided. We must return this party to the great days. We must not go against the tenets of the party and its constitution.

“PDP in Lagos State is going to witness a serious turnaround. I want to call on all those who left the PDP in Lagos for one reason or another to return and take managerial positions.

“We must join hands to rebuild our party again. Rebuilding the party at this period is more important to us than who becomes president in 2027,” he said.

On the 2027 general elections and the debate over a Southern presidency, Doherty said it would not be out of place for the PDP to support President Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress, APC, to complete a second term.

“It does not mean that we are going to abandon our PDP and declare for the APC. It also does not mean that when you see PDP governors declaring for the APC, they cannot return.

“I believe in Wike’s decision to support President Bola Tinubu in 2027. It is his prerogative,” he said.

He added that unseating Tinubu in 2027 would be extremely difficult.

“It is going to be a herculean task,” he said.

Doherty also lamented that the internal crisis had forced many prominent figures out of the party.

NAN reports that Mr Kayode Ogunbiyi was inaugurated as Chairman of the Lagos State Caretaker Committee, while Mr Jamiu Awofala was sworn in as Secretary.

Other members include Mrs Akinro Bolaji, Mr Ege Allen, Mr Audu Salami, Mr Gani Ogungbayi, Mr Ola Odunwa, Mr Samson Hundeyin, Mrs Adebimpe Mariam and Mr Solomon Yusuf. (DailyPost)

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Sanwo-Olu commiserate with victims of GNI building inferno

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has commiserated with the victims affected by the tragic fire incident that engulfed the 25-storey Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) Building on Martins Street, Lagos Island.

Sanwo-Olu conveyed his message in a Thursday statement posted on his official X handle following his visit to the scene of the inferno.

Sanwo-Olu wrote, “I am deeply saddened by the fire incident that occurred yesterday at the Great Nigeria House. My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this tragedy.

“I went to Balogun today for an on-the-spot assessment to better understand the situation. No written report can truly reflect the pain or the full extent of this loss.”

He added, “I want to thank our firefighters, emergency responders, and all the agencies that worked tirelessly through the night to bring the fire under control. Their courage and dedication saved lives and prevented the damage from spreading further.”

“We will continue to assess the situation and provide support to those who have been impacted. Lagos has always shown strength in difficult moments, and I believe we will get through this together,” he expressed. (TVCNews)

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Sanwo-Olu presents N4.2tn 2026 budget to Lagos Assembly

The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Tuesday presented a proposed N4.237 trillion budget for the 2026 fiscal year to the state House of Assembly.

Security was heightened within and around the Assembly complex, with officers from the police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps stationed at major entry points.

Members of the state executive council, local government officials, traditional rulers, and other guests attended the session, which was presided over by the Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa.

Sanwo-Olu began his presentation of the budget, tagged “Budget of Shared Prosperity,” at about 1.25 p.m.

During the address before the 40-member House, the governor emphasised that the 2026 proposal was designed to promote shared prosperity and build a Lagos that benefits all residents.

“Our mission remains clear, to eradicate poverty and build a Lagos that works for all,” the governor said.

He noted that the budget is anchored on four strategic pillars: a human-centred approach, modern infrastructure, a thriving economy, and good governance.

If approved, the N4.2tn proposal would represent a major leap in Lagos’ annual spending plan, reflecting growth of over N3tn in five years.

Budget records show that the state’s appropriation has risen from N1.1tn in 2021 to the N4.2tn now proposed for 2026 — an increase of N3.074tn under Sanwo-Olu’s administration.

The budget rose to N1.75tn in 2022, N1.76tn in 2023, and N2.26tn in 2024. By 2025, Lagos surpassed the N3tn mark with a N3.366tn budget ahead of the latest N4.237tn proposal.

According to the governor, the new budget “is reaffirming of our collective belief that Lagos can continue to rise.”

Sanwo-Olu added that the proposal builds on existing development foundations and restated his commitment to completing ongoing projects.

“We remain determined to complete all ongoing projects,” he said. (Punch)

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Baba Ijesha not cleared of sexual assault charges –LASG

The Lagos State Government has dismissed circulating claims that Nollywood actor Olanrewaju James, popularly known as Baba Ijesha, was released from prison because he was cleared of sexual offences charges by the Court of Appeal.

The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Lawal Pedro (SAN), issued the clarification on Sunday, describing the claims as “false, misleading and irresponsible.”

Nollywood actor, Yomi Fabiyi, had on Friday alleged on his Instagram post that Baba Ijesha regained freedom after being exonerated by the Appeal Court.

Fabiyi further claimed the court cleared the actor of ever sexually assaulting a minor, calling the case “a charade.”

Pedro explained that the clarification became necessary following Fabiyi’s claims that the Court of Appeal “cleared” the convict of ever defiling a minor and that the entire case was a “charade.”

He said the public must disregard those claims, stressing that Baba Ijesha was released only because he had completed the prison term affirmed by the Court of Appeal.

The Attorney General recalled that the High Court of Lagos State convicted the actor on July 14, 2022, for sexual assault and indecent treatment of a child in an incident that occurred in 2021, sentencing him to five years and three years, respectively, to run concurrently.

Baba Ijesha challenged the conviction at the Court of Appeal.

In its judgment delivered on June 28, 2024, the appellate court set aside only the counts relating to alleged offences committed between 2013 and 2014 but upheld his conviction and sentence for the offences committed in 2021.

Pedro noted that the actor’s further appeal to the Supreme Court was filed as Appeal No. SC/CR/757/2024—was struck out on 29 May 2025 for incompetence.

A subsequent application for leave to file a fresh appeal (SC.ML/333/2025) was also dismissed by the apex court on October 9, 2025, leaving the Court of Appeal’s decision intact.

“Mr. Olanrewaju James’s release was not as a result of the Appeal Court overturning his conviction or sentence,” Pedro said.

“He was released solely because he had fully served the punishment affirmed by the Court of Appeal. He was not cleared of the offences of sexual assault and indecent treatment of a child,” Pedro said.

The Attorney General warned Fabiyi and any media platform spreading the false information to desist or risk criminal prosecution for publication of false news with intent to cause fear and alarm to the public, contrary to Section 39 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

He urged the public to ignore the misinformation, reaffirming that the state remains committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting child victims of sexual abuse. (Punch)

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Army confirms death of officer assaulted during security duty in Lagos

The Nigerian Army has confirmed that a soldier on duty in the Imota area of Ikorodu, Lagos State, died after being attacked by a mentally unstable individual.

The incident occurred on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at around 4:00 pm while the soldier was deployed for internal security duties.

Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations 81 Division Nigerian Army, Musa Yahaya in a statement on Tuesday, disclosed that the soldier was attempting to de-escalate a chaotic situation when the attacker struck him on the head with a heavy log, causing severe injuries.

“On November 16, 2025, at about 4:00 pm, one of the soldiers deployed for internal security duty in the Imota area of Ikorodu while attempting to de-escalate a chaotic situation was attacked by a mentally unstable individual.

“The attacker struck the soldier on the head with a heavy log, causing severe injury,”

It was stated that other soldiers at the scene quickly brought the situation under control, neutralising the attacker and recovering the soldier’s weapon.

The injured soldier was said to be rushed to Ikorodu General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

“The situation was swiftly brought under control by other soldiers at the scene, who neutralised the attacker and recovered the soldiers’ weapon.

“The injured soldier was evacuated to Ikorodu General Hospital where he was pronounced dead,” the statement added.

The army said the deceased soldier was later buried according to Islamic rites in a ceremony attended by the Acting Commanding Officer and other officers of the unit.

The army has expressed condolences to the family and friends of the late soldier. It was stated that an investigation into the incident has been instituted, and the army urged the public to exercise caution and report suspicious activities. “

“The 81 Division Nigerian Army has conveyed condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of the deceased soldier.

“We pray for the repose of his soul and appreciate his service to the nation,” the statement concluded. (Punch)

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Tinubu: Stop negative talk, National Theatre revival shows Nigeria will succeed

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Wednesday, urged Nigerians to stop speaking negatively about the country, declaring that Nigeria is a nation of proud, confident, and dedicated people destined for success.

Speaking at the reopening of the renovated National Theatre, now the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts, which coincided with the nation’s 65th Independence Anniversary.

Tinubu said the landmark’s revival was proof that the country could overcome setbacks and achieve greatness.

“Let’s believe in Nigeria, let’s put this country first. If you have a bad dream, forget it—Nigeria will succeed,” the President told the gathering, adding: “This is the giant of Africa; it won’t fall, it won’t disintegrate in my hands.”

Tinubu said the theatre’s rebirth must create jobs and expand opportunities in the creative economy. He directed CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, and the Bankers’ Committee to set up an endowment fund, pledging his own contribution.

“The worst is over; we have turned the corner. With proper management, prosperity will come,” he assured.

 Speaking at the event, Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) said the transformation of the National Arts Theatre into the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts is a strategic investment in Nigeria’s youths, Nigeria’s stories and rightful place on the global  cultural stage.

The CBN Governor explained that the ₦68 billion funding from the Bankers’ Committee was not corporate social responsibility but a deliberate stake in the creative economy.

“This is more than a building; it is an investment in our youths, in our stories, and in Nigeria’s rightful place on the global stage,” he said.

He recalled the Theatre’s FESTAC ’77 legacy, years of neglect, and its revival into a modern hub with world-class performance halls, cinemas, galleries, and upgraded facilities.

He commended President Bola Tinubu, Lagos State, and cultural partners, urging that the Centre remain a beacon of creativity and national pride.

Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, has applauded the Bankers’ Committee for championing the transformation of the National Arts Theatre, describing it as a landmark rebirth of Nigeria’s cultural pride.

Soyinka said he accepted the honour with mixed feelings, warning against the indiscriminate naming of monuments after leaders. He recalled challenging a past ruler for dedicating a public space to “a brutal dictator.”

The playwright lamented the neglect of Africa’s theatre pioneers but praised those who turned the once-derelict complex into a world-class hub. With humour, he recalled how poor design once “nearly electrocuted actors” during performances.

Soyinka thanked President Bola Tinubu, Lagos State, and the Bankers’ Committee, urging that the revived theatre remain a stage for African creativity, unity, and global cultural expression.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has hailed the restoration of the National Arts Theatre, now renamed the Wole Soyinka Center for Culture and Creative Arts, as a landmark in Nigeria’s cultural revival.

Sanwo-Olu said the theatre, once host to FESTAC ’77 but later abandoned, has been restored through federal, state, and private collaboration. He described it as a foundation for future creative possibilities and a global hub for culture.

The renaming honours Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, while Sanwo-Olu praised Tinubu’s support, calling the edifice a beacon of unity, pride, and Nigeria’s artistic rebirth. (Vanguard)

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Sanwo-Olu, NGE mourn Arise TV anchor

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has mourned the ARISE Television News Anchor, Somtochukwu Maduagwu, who died during an armed robbery attack at her residence in Katampe, Abuja, on Monday.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, Sanwo-Olu described the late 29-year-old Maduagwu, fondly called “Sommie” by colleagues, as a fast-rising star in broadcast journalism.

The governor noted that the deceased discharged her duties diligently and passionately while on air.

He also commiserated with the deceased’s family, friends, colleagues, and the management and staff of ARISE News, especially the founder, Nduka Obaigbena, over the tragic loss.

The condolence message read in part, “On behalf of the government and people of Lagos State, we commiserate with ARISE News over the death of one of its anchors, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu. She was a diligent and thorough professional.

“Her death was a big shock considering the circumstances, but we take solace in the Almighty God that she lived a fulfilled life and made positive impacts in the media industry.

“She will be greatly missed by her family, friends, associates, colleagues, and the entire ARISE News team. I pray that God will comfort everyone who was close to her and grant her eternal rest.

“My thoughts are with her immediate family and the Chairman of ARISE TV, Mr. Nduka Obaigbena. May God grant them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”

Also, the Nigerian Guild of Editors has expressed sadness over the death of Maduagwu.

In a statement signed on Tuesday by its President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, the guild described Somtochukwu’s death as a huge loss to journalism in Nigeria.

“By Somtochukwu’s untimely death, journalism has lost not just a good professional who was committed to shedding light on important issues and giving voice to the voiceless but also one who represented the future of journalism in the country,” the guild said.

The editors noted that the incident underscored the dangers posed by insecurity in the country.

“The loss of this dedicated journalist from an armed robbery incident is a stark reminder of the dangers Nigerians face daily in their homes and on the street. We cannot help but reflect on the issue of insecurity that plagues our nation. The increasing frequency of armed robbery, kidnapping, banditry, insurgency and other violent crimes has created an environment of fear and uncertainty for both citizens and professionals like journalists,” the statement added.

The NGE called on the government to address insecurity and bring those behind the reporter’s death to justice.

“We demand action from the government to address the root causes of insecurity and take measures to ensure the safety and security of all citizens. We demand that those responsible for Somtochukwu’s death be fished out by security agencies and made to face the full weight of the law,” it said.

The guild also commiserated with Arise News and the journalist’s colleagues.

“At this difficult time, we stand in solidarity with Arise News and the broader journalism community. We pray that the memory of this talented young journalist who died at her prime inspires excellence in journalism, even in the face of adversity. May the memory of this vibrant journalist be a blessing to all who knew her.” (Punch)

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Tinubu, Shettima, govs celebrate First Lady at 65

President Bola Tinubu on Sunday led tributes as his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, clocked 65, with Vice-President Kashim Shettima, governors, lawmakers and prominent Nigerians extolling her as a symbol of strength, compassion, and service to the nation.

In a moving midnight tribute, the President described his wife as his confidant, counsellor, and steady anchor through decades of political struggle and public service.

“As you celebrate your 65th birthday today, I honour not only the love of my life, but also a woman whose quiet strength and enduring grace have been my steadying anchor,” Tinubu wrote.

He praised her sacrifices during years of political exile and leadership challenges, adding that her support amounted to national service.

“Nigeria owes you more than many will ever know,” he said.

The First Lady had earlier announced that she would dedicate her birthday to raising funds for the completion of Nigeria’s long-delayed National Library project in Abuja.

She urged well-wishers to donate to an “Oluremi@65 Education Fund”.

Vice-President Shettima, in his message, lauded Mrs Tinubu as a “symbol of womanhood, strength, and compassion,” describing her as a mother of the nation whose quiet resilience has touched millions.

 “When the history of this administration is written, her name will be inscribed in gold,” he said.

From the National Assembly, Senate President Godswill Akpabio and his deputy, Senator Barau Jibrin, joined in the celebration.

Akpabio hailed the First Lady as “a pillar of love and strength to her husband, the less privileged and the nation at large,” while Barau described her as a patriot whose contributions to nation-building have spanned decades—from her New Era Foundation in Lagos to her 12 years in the Senate and now through the Renewed Hope Initiative.

State governors also paid glowing tributes.

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu called her “a great ambassador of our dear state,” praising her philanthropy and public service.

Ekiti Governor Biodun Oyebanji said she remained “a special gift to the nation and a pillar of support to the President.”

Kogi’s Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo branded her “an Amazon and a source of inspiration to millions,” while Delta’s Governor Sheriff Oborevwori commended her empowerment programmes as “a beacon of hope for vulnerable citizens.”

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, though of the opposition PDP, joined the chorus of praise, describing Mrs Tinubu as “an incredible woman of unimaginable importance” who championed women’s rights during her three terms in the Senate.

Other political figures, including Kano NNPP chieftain Musa Kwankwaso and NIWA Managing Director Bola Oyebamiji, also showered encomiums, calling her a virtuous woman of integrity and humility.

Born on September 21, 1960, Oluremi Tinubu first came into national prominence as Lagos State First Lady (1999–2007), where she established the New Era Foundation.

She later represented Lagos Central in the Senate for 12 years before becoming Nigeria’s First Lady in May 2023.

Over the years, she has tied her advocacy to education, women’s empowerment and youth development, most recently through her Renewed Hope Initiative, which has launched programmes to support widows, empower small-scale farmers, and provide scholarships and food palliatives to families. (Punch)