Oluremi Tinubu, the first lady, has commended the swift rescue of recently abducted schoolchildren, describing the operation as the fastest recorded in the country.
Speaking on Thursday in Abuja at the third annual special Christmas brunch she organised for children from foster homes in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Oluremi Tinubu said the event was dedicated to disadvantaged children and not those from privileged backgrounds.
“This is for those who really need it,” she said.
She also led the children in a reading session from her book, The Christmas Story, which retells the nativity narrative using Nigerian characters.
“I wanted to create a Christmas story where the heroes are black, where children could see themselves in the story. We own this story with our rich culture and tradition,” she said, adding that pride in one’s heritage helps build confidence and identity.
The event featured children sharing their future ambitions, ranging from engineering and medicine to law, baking, the military, and the presidency.
They were entertained by Santa Claus and served jollof rice, fried rice, Chinese noodles, sweets and received gifts from the first lady.
Remi Tinubu Raises Concerns Over Insecurity
Speaking to State House correspondents afterwards, Tinubu expressed concern over rising insecurity in the country, particularly the wave of school abductions.
“It is very sad; it’s disheartening. But you can see, Mr President has done the needful. They’ve gone after them,” she said. “We want to see every child safe.”
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She said the children’s enthusiasm at the event reflected hope for the future, noting their eagerness to contribute to national security.
“All those students here are ready. They said, ‘I want to be a soldier.’ They are ready to protect the nation,” she added.
Tinubu also spoke on the values that shape her philanthropy, stressing humility, generosity and staying grounded.
“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,” she said.
She urged Nigerians to show greater compassion to the less privileged in the coming year, saying: “Next year should be a year Nigerians reach out. We must start helping the common man.”
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
