First Lady Oluremi Tinubu Donates N1 Billion, Relief Materials to Victims of Disasters in Niger State
Mokwa, Niger State – August 5, 2025 | In a heartfelt demonstration of compassion and solidarity, Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, visited Niger State to sympathize with victims of recent disasters and extend humanitarian support through the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI).
During the visit, the First Lady condoled with Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago and the people of the state over the tragic incidents of flooding, fire outbreaks, boat accidents, and banditry attacks that have ravaged several communities.
Speaking in Mokwa, where a recent flood disaster claimed the lives of over 159 people, destroyed more than 400 homes, and displaced more than 3,000 residents, Senator Tinubu described the events as deeply saddening and emphasized the need for collective compassion.
“The strength of a nation lies in its compassion,” she said. “In times like this, we must rise to the occasion and be our brother’s keeper.”
To support the recovery and rebuilding efforts, Senator Tinubu announced a donation of ₦1 billion by the Renewed Hope Initiative to the Niger State Government. In addition, the RHI provided 2,000 bags of 50kg rice, relief materials including clothes and shoes, aimed at easing the suffering of affected families.
“The funds will be directed towards housing support and essential supplies to help displaced families get back on their feet, earn a living, and enjoy a better life. This aligns with the mission of the Renewed Hope Initiative: Towards a Better Life for Families,” she added.
As a mother, she said, she shares in the grief of the victims and believes in the collective strength of the community to rebuild and heal.
Empowering Women Entrepreneurs
While in the state, the First Lady also flagged off the RHI/Tony Elumelu Foundation Women Empowerment Programme, aimed at boosting the economic capacity of women traders and small-scale entrepreneurs.
Senator Tinubu revealed that the Tony Elumelu Foundation donated ₦1 billion to the Renewed Hope Initiative, which will directly benefit 18,500 women nationwide.
“Five hundred women from each of the 36 states and the FCT will receive ₦50,000 grants each to recapitalize their existing businesses. This is not a loan, but a seed of renewed hope,” she stated.
She reiterated that empowering women is key to uplifting families and communities, stating, “When you empower a woman, you empower a household, a community, and indeed, a nation.”
Tributes to Former Nigerian Leaders
Rounding off her one-day visit, Senator Tinubu paid courtesy visits to former Heads of State, General Ibrahim Babangida and General Abdulsalami Abubakar, at their residences in Minna.
She expressed delight at seeing them in good health and conveyed the warm regards of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to both statesmen.
A Nation United by Compassion
In his remarks, Governor Umaru Bago expressed deep gratitude to the First Lady and the Renewed Hope Initiative for their timely intervention, noting that the gesture has rekindled hope among victims.
“Your presence and support will go a long way in restoring joy and giving a sense of belonging to our people,” he said.
The visit underscores the First Lady’s ongoing efforts to bridge humanitarian gaps and support vulnerable Nigerians in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Signed:
Busola Kukoyi
SSA, Media to the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
Tuesday, August 5, 2025
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