President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has penned a deeply personal and heartwarming birthday tribute to his wife, Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, as she marks her 66th birthday today, September 21, 2026.
In a statement personally signed by him and titled “Oluremi mi, Senator Oluremi Tinubu – I WOULD CHOOSE THE SAME ROAD THAT LED ME TO YOU,” the President described the First Lady as his truest friend, confidante, and crown.
“Today, I celebrate the woman who has walked beside me with patience, grace and uncommon courage,” President Tinubu wrote.
Quoting a Yoruba adage and scripture, he said: “Àwọn àgbà sọ pé, ‘Ìyàwó rere ni adé ọkọ rẹ̀.’ A good wife is her husband’s crown. The Book of Proverbs, which you know far better than I do, also speaks eloquently of the worth of a virtuous woman. You have given these words true meaning in my life.”
The President reflected on their long journey together, noting that she has stood by him through every season of life.
“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. In difficult times, when the future was uncertain, you stayed calm beside me and prayed with me,” he said.
President Tinubu praised her honesty and quiet counsel, saying she often senses when he needs advice before he asks and speaks truth plainly, even when difficult to hear.
“I call you my truest friend and confidante because you speak the truth plainly, even on the days I would rather not hear it. After a demanding day, you wait until we are alone before telling me what I need to hear. I have always cherished you for that honesty.”
He also celebrated her impact on their family and the nation, saying their home bears the imprint of her devotion and their children and grandchildren have grown under the shelter of her prayers.
On her public service, the President lauded the First Lady’s compassion and generosity of spirit, noting her humanitarian work from the New Era Foundation during their years in Lagos to the Renewed Hope Initiative, which has reached young boys and girls, widows, elderly citizens, and women farmers across the country.
He described her as a compassionate advocate for those affected by tuberculosis and other diseases, adding: “For you, compassion has never recognised the boundaries of tribe, region or religion.”
Reflecting on their marriage, Tinubu wrote: “A long journey teaches a man the true value of a good partner… 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 concluded with prayers for her: “Happy 66th birthday, my darling Oluremi. I pray that God Almighty will grant you many more years in good health and joy. May the years ahead bring you the same comfort and happiness you have so freely given to me and many others.”
