President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has celebrated his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on her 66th birthday, describing her as his “truest friend and confidante” and praising her patience, courage, faith and compassion.
In a personal birthday message issued on Sunday, September 20, 2026, Tinubu said Oluremi had stood by him through difficult periods, providing counsel and emotional support throughout their years together.
“Today, I celebrate the woman who has walked beside me with patience, grace and uncommon courage,” the President said.
Quoting a Yoruba proverb, “Ìyàwó rere ni adé ọkọ rẹ̀,” which he translated as “A good wife is her husband’s crown,” Tinubu said his wife had given the proverb true meaning in his life.
He also referenced the Book of Proverbs in describing the worth of a virtuous woman.
“You have stood by my side through every season. The burdens that were mine to bear often found their way onto your shoulders,” he said.
According to the President, Oluremi often understood his concerns even when he could not express them in words and remained calm and prayerful during difficult periods.
He described her as the person who understood him most and said she often knew when he needed counsel before he asked for it.
“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.
He praised her honesty, recalling that she often waited until they were alone before telling him what he needed to hear after a demanding day.
Tinubu also acknowledged Oluremi’s influence on their family, saying their children and grandchildren had grown under the shelter of her prayers and carried her values of faith and kindness.
The President further highlighted his wife’s humanitarian activities, saying Nigerians knew her for her compassion, kindness, generosity and steadfast faith.
He recalled her work with the New Era Foundation during their years in Lagos and her current activities through the Renewed Hope Initiative.
According to Tinubu, these initiatives have provided support to young boys and girls, widows, elderly citizens and women farmers across Nigeria.
He also praised her advocacy for people affected by tuberculosis and other diseases, describing her as a compassionate advocate and determined champion for people in need.
“I know the prayers you offer for people whose names you may never know. I also know many whom you have helped without ever meeting them,” he said.
Tinubu said his wife’s compassion had never been limited by “tribe, region or religion.”
Reflecting on their years together, the President said their journey had involved difficult decisions, sacrifices and challenges that were not always visible to others.
He said laughter and prayer had helped them through many of those experiences.
“A long journey teaches a man the true value of a good partner. We have travelled a long road together,” he said.
Tinubu added: “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.”
The President thanked his wife 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,” he said.
“May the years ahead bring you the same comfort and happiness you have so freely given to me and many others.”
Oluremi Tinubu, a former senator representing Lagos Central Senatorial District, is the First Lady of Nigeria and chairperson of the Renewed Hope Initiative.
