President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has celebrated his wife, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, on her 66th birthday, describing her as his “truest friend and confidante” whose prayers, counsel and support have remained a source of strength throughout their years together.
In a birthday message issued on Monday, September 21, 2026, the President praised the First Lady for standing by him through difficult periods and offering guidance, including at times when he found it difficult to express his thoughts.
“Today, I celebrate the woman who has walked beside me with patience, grace and uncommon courage,” Tinubu said.
The President recalled the Yoruba saying, “Ìyàwó rere ni adé ọkọ rẹ̀,” which means that a good wife is her husband’s crown, saying Oluremi had given the words true meaning in his life.
“You have stood by my side through every season. 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,” he said.
Tinubu also highlighted the role of prayer and companionship in their relationship, noting that Oluremi remained calm during difficult periods and prayed with him when the future appeared uncertain.
“In difficult times, when the future was uncertain, you stayed calm beside me and prayed with me,” the President said.
He described the First Lady as someone who often offered counsel even before he asked for it, adding that her honesty was one of the qualities he cherished most.
“I call you my truest friend and confidante because you speak the truth plainly, even on the days I would rather not hear it,” Tinubu said.
According to the President, Oluremi’s devotion has also left a lasting impact on their family, with their children and grandchildren growing under the influence of her faith and values.
“Our children and grandchildren have grown beneath the shelter of your prayers. They carry your values of faith and kindness wherever life takes them,” he said.
Tinubu also commended his wife for her humanitarian activities, saying her compassion and generosity had touched the lives of Nigerians, particularly young people, widows, elderly citizens and women farmers.
He recalled her work through the New Era Foundation during their years in Lagos and the Renewed Hope Initiative, which she currently leads.
“From the New Era Foundation during our years in the saddle in Lagos to the Renewed Hope Initiative today, your care has reached many young boys and girls, widows, elderly citizens and women farmers across the country,” he said.
The President also praised Oluremi’s advocacy for people affected by tuberculosis and other diseases, describing her as a “compassionate advocate and a determined champion.”
He said her compassion had remained non-discriminatory, extending to people regardless of their tribe, region or religion.
“For you, compassion has never recognised the boundaries of tribe, region or religion,” Tinubu said.
Reflecting on their years together, the President said their journey had been marked by difficult decisions, sacrifices, laughter and prayer.
“A long journey teaches a man the true value of a good partner. We have travelled a long road together,” he said.
Tinubu further expressed his enduring commitment to their relationship, saying he would make the same choice if given the opportunity to start over.
“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,” he said.
The President thanked the First Lady for the life they had built together and prayed for many more years of good health and happiness.
“Happy 66th birthday, my darling Oluremi. I pray that God Almighty will grant you many more years in good health and joy,” Tinubu said.
He also prayed that the years ahead would bring her the same comfort and happiness she had given to him and many others.