President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has marked the 65th birthday of his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, describing her as a steadfast confidant, counsellor, and source of strength throughout decades of personal and political challenges.
In a statement released at midnight on Sunday, the President praised the First Lady not only for her role in his life but also for her contributions to the nation. “As you celebrate your 65th birthday today, I honour not only the love of my life, but also a woman whose quiet strength and enduring grace have been my steadying anchor,” Tinubu said.
He reflected on her influence beyond the family, calling her a role model for their children and grandchildren, as well as a symbol of resilience for Nigerian women. “You are more than my wife. You are my confidant, counsellor, and the steady flame illuminating my path. In you, our children and grandchildren see compassion and faith, and in you, our nation sees the true strength of womanhood; resolute yet tender, humble yet unshakably firm,” he added.
The President also acknowledged the personal sacrifices she made during years of political struggle, framing them as a form of national service. “Nigeria owes you more than many will ever know. In every sacrifice you made quietly, in every burden you carried without complaint, you have served this country as surely as I have, not from the podium, but from the heart of our home,” he said.
Senator Tinubu, a former three-term senator for Lagos Central, has long championed education, youth empowerment, and women’s welfare. Ahead of her birthday, she announced that she would dedicate the day to raising funds for the completion of Nigeria’s long-delayed National Library in Abuja.
In a statement issued Thursday, September 18, the First Lady said well-wishers should channel birthday gifts into the “Oluremi@65 Education Fund” coordinated by the Ministry of Education. “I wish to appeal to those who would like to send a birthday card, cakes, flowers, greetings in the newspapers, or gifts to please send the funds to the designated account for a special project close to my heart… the completion of the National Library. This will be the best birthday present I would ever receive,” she said.
The National Library headquarters, located between the National Mosque and the National Ecumenical Centre, has been under construction since 2006. Originally awarded at N8.59 billion with an expected completion in under two years, the project stalled, and by 2023, only 44 per cent of the 12-storey facility had been completed. Cost estimates to finalize the project now range from N49.6 billion to more than N120 billion.
Education Minister Tunji Alausa said in April that construction work would resume by June 1, following site assessments. The Nigerian Library Association in September 2025 reiterated that the facility is vital to education, research, and cultural preservation.
President Tinubu concluded his birthday tribute by praying for her continued health, happiness, and fulfilment.
“Today, as your husband, I thank God for your life, health, and unwavering love. As your President, I salute you as the First Lady whose warmth and empathy continue to touch millions of lives across our land. Happy 65th birthday, Oluremi. May the years ahead be filled with joy, peace, and the fulfilment you so richly deserve,” he said.
