By Johnbosco Agbakwuru
ABUJA — President Bola Tinubu has celebrated the 66th birthday of his wife, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, describing her as his “truest friend and confidante” and declaring that, if life gave him another chance, he would choose the same path that led him to her.
Tinubu, in a birthday message on Sunday, addressed the First Lady as “Oluremi mi” and wrote: “Today, I celebrate the woman who has walked beside me with patience, grace and uncommon courage.”
The President invoked Yoruba wisdom and scripture, quoting the proverb, “Ìyàwó rere ni adé ọkọ rẹ̀” — “A good wife is her husband’s crown” — and adding that the Book of Proverbs, which she knows “far better than I do,” also speaks eloquently of the worth of a virtuous woman.
Tinubu credited his wife with sharing his burdens and understanding him in ways few others could.
“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 wrote.
He recalled her composure during difficult periods, saying: “In difficult times, when the future was uncertain, you stayed calm beside me and prayed with me. Through all these years, you have remained the one who truly understands me.”
The President also praised her honesty, particularly her willingness to tell him difficult truths.
“I call you my truest friend and confidante because you speak the truth plainly, even on the days I would rather not hear it,” he said.
“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.”
Tinubu highlighted the First Lady’s role in shaping their family and faith life, saying their children and grandchildren had grown under the influence of her prayers, values of faith and kindness.
“Our home bears the lasting imprint of your devotion. 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.
The President also praised her public service and compassion, saying Nigerians knew her for her kindness, generosity and steadfast faith.
“I have watched you touch lives quietly and consistently, offering hope and support to those in need,” he said.
Tinubu traced her humanitarian activities from their years in Lagos to her current national platform.
“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.
He singled out her advocacy for people affected by tuberculosis and other diseases, describing her as “a compassionate advocate and a determined champion.”
Tinubu further said his wife’s compassion transcended ethnic, regional and religious boundaries.
“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. For you, compassion has never recognised the boundaries of tribe, region or religion,” he said.
Reflecting on their years together, the President said their shared experiences had strengthened their relationship.
“A long journey teaches a man the true value of a good partner. We have travelled a long road together. I think of the difficult decisions we talked through for hours and the sacrifices no one else saw. Laughter and prayer carried us through many of them,” he said.
Tinubu ended the tribute with a declaration of enduring love and commitment.
“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.
“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.”
