Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has defended her husband, President Bola Tinubu, amid growing criticism over the nation’s economic hardship. She addressed these concerns during a visit to the Palace of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, on Thursday.
Mrs. Tinubu emphasized that her husband should not be held responsible for the current economic difficulties faced by Nigerians. She explained that the administration is still in its early stages and that the challenges predate her husband’s presidency. “We are just two years into our administration, we are not the cause of the current situation, we are trying to fix it and secure the future,” she stated.
She acknowledged that the removal of the fuel subsidy has created difficulties but expressed confidence that the situation will improve. Mrs. Tinubu urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and trust in the government’s efforts.
She reassured citizens that, with time and prayer, the nation would see progress. “We know that subsidy has been removed but with God on our side in the next two years Nigeria will be greater than this. Those who attempted removing subsidy before could not see it through. But with your prayers in the next two years, we will build a nation for the future,” she said.
Mrs. Tinubu also highlighted her husband’s integrity, describing him as someone who is not motivated by greed. She noted that President Tinubu has already attained wealth and does not seek personal gain from his position. “We give glory to God for our status, myself and my husband, we are not greedy but we thank God for what God has done for us. It is not common for rich people to get to this seat but I am grateful to God, we cannot disappoint Nigeria,” she added.
The removal of the fuel subsidy, which has caused a sharp rise in petrol prices from N198 to over N1,300 per liter, has been a major issue for Nigerians. The floating of the foreign exchange market, along with the removal of the subsidy, has contributed to rising inflation, poverty, and unemployment. Critics argue that these reforms were implemented without sufficient consideration for their impact on vulnerable citizens, leading to increased hardship.
Despite these challenges, Mrs. Tinubu remains hopeful that the government’s long-term plans will bring positive changes. As part of her visit to Ife, she also donated N1 billion to Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) for its development. In addition, she inaugurated a hostel and a 2.7-kilometer road donated by the Ooni of Ife and named in her honor.
