Nigeria’s First Lady Addresses Security Challenges and Development Initiatives
Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has made a strong statement about the nation’s security situation, assuring citizens that President Bola Tinubu is fully committed to creating a safer environment for all. During her visit to Ekiti State, she emphasized the ongoing efforts being made to combat insecurity, including kidnappings, banditry, and violent crimes.
Tinubu spoke during an engagement with Ekiti State traditional rulers in Ado Ekiti, where she expressed her concern over the current security challenges facing the country. She described the incidents as disheartening but highlighted that significant measures are being taken behind the scenes to address these issues. While specific details of these initiatives cannot be disclosed publicly, she assured the public that progress is being made.
The First Lady also responded to calls for a review of the kidnapping law and the urgent need to establish state police forces. She reiterated the President’s commitment to strengthening internal security through strategic partnerships with developed nations like the United States. These collaborations aim to tackle terrorism and other criminal activities that have plagued various parts of the country.
“President Tinubu has entered into partnerships with developed countries like the United States of America and others, and is taking internal security measures to smash those terrorising the country and stoking the fire of killings and kidnappings across the geopolitical zones,” she said.
Tinubu thanked the traditional rulers for their support of the President and Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji. She described their backing as a driving force for both leaders to continue their work in good governance. “Their support is a veritable impetus driving the two leaders to give their best in terms of commitment to good governance,” she added.
She also mentioned the role of foreign assistance in addressing Nigeria’s security concerns. “Some of those terrorising us are non-Nigerians. No matter what happens, we shall overcome. Nigeria is too great to be intimidated,” she said.
Tinubu encouraged collective effort and prayer, stating, “Let us bear in mind that we have a great country. Challenges will come, but collectively, we can tackle them. I can assure you, we don’t have Mondays or Sundays; the President is working round the clock to get this matter resolved.”
Renewed Hope Initiative: A Focus on Youth and Economic Empowerment
As part of her efforts to uplift communities, the First Lady launched the Renewed Hope Initiative, which includes several development projects aimed at improving the lives of Nigerians. One such initiative involved the construction of an ultra-modern ICT center at Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti, to enhance digital education among youths.
Additionally, the initiative has provided N200 million in prizes for undergraduates, expanding the scope of scholarship programs within the institution. It has also empowered 2,000 traders with N50,000 each to engage in trade, while hundreds of elderly individuals, vulnerable groups, and people living with disabilities have benefited from programs designed to improve their quality of life.
“I didn’t only come here to support Governor Oyebanji and the APC women campaign council, I am here to thank you for the love you have shown to Mr President in Ekiti State,” she said. “Your domains shall be peaceful by the grace of God. Long may you reign,” she prayed.
Traditional Rulers Praise President Tinubu and His Policies
The Chairman of the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers and the Ogoga of Ikere Ekiti, Oba Adejimi Adu-Alagbado, praised the First Lady for her respect and honor toward the traditional rulers. He noted that this gesture would remain indelible in the annals of history.
Oba Adu-Alagbado also commended the difficult policies being implemented by President Tinubu to address the multifaceted challenges facing the country. He stated that the entire traditional council remains solidly behind the administration. “You have touched the lives of our people. We heard about you when you were in the Senate. We heard about how you transformed the lives of Lagos Central that you represented,” he said.
He further called for a review of laws dealing with insecurity, emphasizing the need for stricter penalties for those involved in kidnapping and other crimes. “Kidnapping has been on for some time. All those who are aiding and abetting kidnapping, we have not seen any punitive measures taken against them. There should be a review of the laws dealing with these murderers,” he said.
Support for President Tinubu’s 2027 Presidential Bid
Speaking about the upcoming 2027 presidential contest, Oba Adu-Alagbado expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s ability to lead the country. “Tinubu stands tall and towering among the contestants and those showing intention to vie for the nation’s number one seat,” he said. He assured that the Ekiti people would support the President for a second term based on his performance.
The event was attended by several high-profile figures, including the wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima, Governor Oyebanji, his wife Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, Deputy Governor Mrs Monisade Afuye, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, and other top government officials.
