Remi Tinubu Lauds Swift Rescue of Abducted Schoolchildren, Urges Nigerians to Show Compassion at Christmasl
The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has praised the rapid rescue of some recently abducted schoolchildren, describing it as the fastest such operation in the country’s history. She attributed the success to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to securing the nation, saying, “Mr. President is ready to ensure a safe society.”
Senator Tinubu made the remarks on Thursday while hosting the third edition of her annual Christmas brunch for children from foster homes across the Federal Capital Territory. The event, held at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja, was dedicated exclusively to vulnerable children, a tradition she said she intends to uphold.
“I have not invited ministers’ children or those from wealthy families. This is for those who really need it,” she stated.
During the event, the First Lady held an engaging reading session from her book, The Christmas Story, a retelling of the birth of Jesus featuring Nigerian characters. She said the book was designed to help children see themselves as heroes.
“I wanted to create a Christmas story where the heroes are blacks… We own this story with our rich culture and tradition,” she explained. “It is my culture that really gives me self-esteem. I know who I am and whose I am.”
Children at the brunch shared their future ambitions, including becoming doctors, engineers, soldiers, lawyers, pastors, bakers, and even president — a moment the First Lady described as inspiring for the nation’s future.
Speaking with journalists after the event, Senator Tinubu condemned the rising wave of abductions in parts of the country but praised the government's efforts in responding swiftly.
“It is very sad, it’s disheartening. But you can see, Mr. President has done the needful. They’ve gone after them,” she said. “Nigeria is a huge population — over 250 million people… We want to see every child safe.”
She also reflected on the importance of generosity and humility in leadership, noting that she gives not from abundance but from a place of responsibility and empathy.
“When you fly high, you can fall like Humpty Dumpty,” she cautioned. “When you know who you are, you’re proud of your heritage and can share the favour God has given you.”
Senator Tinubu urged Nigerians to make 2026 a year of giving, inspired by a sermon from one of her favourite preachers.
“We must start helping the common man. Next year should be a year Nigerians reach out,” she said.
The event concluded with a renewed call for compassion, unity, and collective responsibility during the festive season.
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