“MR PRESIDENT IS READY TO ENSURE A SAFE SOCIETY” — FIRST LADY OLUREMI TINUBU
•Hosts children to Christmas brunch, says “I want our children to see themselves as heroes”
The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has hailed the swift rescue of some of the recently abducted schoolchildren as one of the fastest in the country, praising President Bola Tinubu’s relentless efforts.
She made the remarks while hosting the third annual special Christmas brunch for children from foster homes in the Federal Capital Territory on Thursday, urging Nigerians to embrace love, compassion, and unity during the festive season.
At the State House Conference Centre in Abuja, Senator Oluremi Tinubu reiterated her long-held tradition of dedicating this event exclusively to vulnerable children, explicitly excluding children of ministers or privileged backgrounds.
“I have not invited ministers’ children or those from wealthy families. This is for those who really need it,” she said.
The First Lady engaged the children in a reading session from her book, The Christmas Story, which creatively reimagines the birth of Jesus featuring Nigerian characters.
“I wanted to create a Christmas story where the heroes are Blacks, where children could see themselves in the story. We own this story with our rich culture and tradition.”
She stressed the importance of instilling pride in heritage and identity in young Nigerians.
“It is my culture that really gives me good self-esteem. I know who I am and whose I am.”
Each child at the event introduced their ambitions, ranging from doctors and engineers to pastors, bakers, soldiers, lawyers, and even the president.
Speaking to State House correspondents after the event, Senator Oluremi Tinubu addressed the troubling surge in abductions, praising the government’s swift response.
“It is very sad, it’s disheartening. But you can see Mr President has done the needful. They’ve gone after them. Nigeria is a big, huge population — over 250 million people, close to the population of the U.S. We’ve been working hard. We want to see every child safe.”
She expressed hope for the country’s future through the children.
“All those students here are ready. They said, ‘I want to be a soldier.’ They are ready to protect the nation.”
She further emphasised the importance of giving and humility in leadership, reflecting on her own upbringing and values:
“You think because I have something, I give? At times, I give to zero. But why do I give? Because most people, when blessed, want to associate with those who are like them, but not me. I always hold onto my foundation because when you fly high, you can fall like Humpty Dumpty. When you know who you are, you’re proud of your heritage and can share the favour God has given you.”
The First Lady concluded by encouraging Nigerians to reach out to the less privileged in the coming year, inspired by a sermon from her favourite preacher.
“We must start helping the common man. Next year should be a year Nigerians reach out. Why do people not give?”
