Meet Oluremi Tinubu CON OON, a Nigerian politician and current First Lady of Nigeria, renowned for her dedication to public service and commitment to empowering communities. Born on September 21, 1960, she has established herself as a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, with a career spanning over two decades, serving as First Lady of Lagos State from 1999 to 2007, Senator representing Lagos Central Senatorial District from 2011 to 2023, and currently, as the wife of President Bola Tinubu, assuming the role of First Lady in 2023, bringing her expertise and passion for social development to the forefront.
Wiki
Full Name: Oluremi Tinubu
Date of Birth: September 21, 1960
Place of Birth: Ogun State
Origin: Ogun State
Nationality: Nigerian
Profession: Politician, Pastor
Political Party: All Progressive Party
Net Worth: $10 Million
Early Life & Career
Oluremi Tinubu, was born on September 21, 1960. She hails from the esteemed Ikusebiala family of Ogun State. Her father, Chief John Ikusebiala, is of Yoruba descent from Ogun State, while her mother is Itsekiri from Delta State, giving Remi a rich cultural heritage rooted in Nigeria’s diverse ethnic backgrounds. Remi is the 12th of 13 children, growing up in a large family with twelve siblings.
Oluremi Tinubu began her educational journey at Our Lady of Apostles Secondary School in Ijebu-Ode, where she obtained her West African Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) in 1979. She furthered her education by obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University). Additionally, she holds a National Certificate of Education in Botany and Zoology from Adeyemi College of Education. In 2010, she completed a Postgraduate Diploma from The Redeemed Christian Bible College.
Oluremi Tinubu’s political journey began in earnest when her husband, Bola Tinubu, was elected as the Governor of Lagos State in 1999. Serving as the First Lady of Lagos State from 1999 to 2007, she established the New Era Foundation, an initiative aimed at the holistic development of youth and promoting public awareness on environmental health and community service.
In 2011, Oluremi Tinubu transitioned from her role as First Lady to a legislative career, being elected as the Senator representing Lagos Central Senatorial District at the Nigerian National Assembly. She served in this capacity for three consecutive terms, from 2011 to 2023, as a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) political party.
Her election to the Senate in 2011 faced challenges, but the Legislative House Election Petition Tribunal upheld her victory in 2012. During her tenure in the 8th Assembly, she was one of the six women out of over 100 senators, alongside notable figures like Stella Oduah, Uche Ekwunife, Fatimat Raji Rasaki, Rose Okoji Oko, and Binta Garba. In the 2019 general elections, she successfully retained her senatorial seat for Lagos Central, marking her third tenure in office.
In 2023, Oluremi Tinubu ascended to the role of First Lady of Nigeria, following her husband’s election as President. In this capacity, she has continued to champion causes close to her heart, particularly in youth development, environmental health, and community service.
Oluremi Tinubu is a devout Christian and an ordained pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God. Her faith plays a significant role in her life and public service, guiding her actions and initiatives.
In 2016, Senator Oluremi Tinubu requested enhanced security from the Inspector General of Police following an alleged threat of assault by her colleague and fellow party member, Dino Melaye, during a closed-door session of the Senate. This incident highlighted her resilience and determination to maintain her legislative duties in a secure environment.
Recognized for her contributions to Lagos and Nigeria, she was listed alongside notable figures such as Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Tony Elumelu for the Eko Excellence Awards in 2019. This accolade celebrated her significant impact on society and her dedication to public service.
In 2020, Senator Tinubu advocated for the creation of state police as a strategic measure to address the escalating insecurity in the country. Her call underscored her proactive approach to legislative solutions aimed at enhancing national security.
A firm believer in investing in human capital and empowering the youth, Senator Tinubu launched the Youth Empowerment and Skill Acquisition Scheme in collaboration with the Good Boys and Girls Empowerment Scheme (GBGES). This initiative has produced 1,172 beneficiaries, with 164 youths trained in various skills and provided with start-up kits and capital of about N40,000 each. Her commitment to youth development has significantly contributed to reducing unemployment and fostering self-reliance among young Nigerians.
In March 2021, she proposed a bill to reform the Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) to enhance its viability and efficiency. Her legislative efforts were recognized when she received the award for the most impactful female senator at The Guardian-organized International Women’s Day Summit 2021.
A devout Christian, she is an ordained pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG). Her ordination took place in 2018 at the Old Arena of RCCG on the Lagos/Ibadan Expressway during the church’s 66th annual convention themed “Dominion.” Additionally, she serves as the Grand Matron of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), further demonstrating her commitment to community service and women’s empowerment.
Awards & Recognitions
She has had a distinguished career, garnering numerous awards and honors that attest to her remarkable achievements. One of the most prestigious recognitions she has received is the National Award of the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), a testament to her outstanding contributions to the nation.
In addition to this esteemed honor, she has also been appointed as a Member of the Board of Trustees of Kings’ University in Ode-Omu, a role that underscores her commitment to education and leadership. Her impact extends beyond borders, as evident in the Ghana Noble International Award for Leadership she received in 2004.
Furthermore, her tireless efforts to uplift and empower individuals have been recognized with the Gambian Diamond Award for Immense Contribution to the Emancipation of People from Poverty in 2005.
Personal Life
Oluremi Tinubu is married to Bola Tinubu, the current President of Nigeria. They have three children together: Zainab Abisola Tinubu, Habibat Tinubu, and Olayinka Tinubu. She is also a stepmother to Bola Tinubu’s three children from previous relationships: Olajide Tinubu (deceased), Folashade Tinubu, and Oluwaseyi Tinubu.
Social Media
Senator Tinubu maintains an active presence on social media, where she engages with a broad audience. She has amassed over 68,000 followers on Instagram (@sen_oluremi_tinubu_con) and over 200,000 followers on Twitter (formerly X) (@oluremitinubu).
Net Worth
Oluremi Tinubu’s net worth is estimated to be $10 million. This substantial figure reflects her successful career in politics, her business acumen, and her strategic investments. Her financial success, coupled with her commitment to public service and philanthropy, underscores her multifaceted influence and legacy in Nigerian society.