Violent attacks: Oluremi Tinubu donates N1bn to Plateau victims

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has contributed N1 billion to assist victims of recent violent attacks in Plateau State, clarifying that her support stems from compassion rather than political interests.

During her visit to the Government House in Rayfield, Jos, on Thursday, the First Lady said the financial assistance was facilitated through her Renewed Hope Initiative, noting that the donation did not come from public funds.

“This visit is one filled with mixed emotions for me. I came here first as a mother whose heart bleeds each time I hear about killings, violence, or bloodshed,” she said.

“It took me some time to respond, but I want to assure you that this will be the last time I will respond to such a situation in Plateau State. I pray that God will honour this, and from now on, it shall be for the progress of the state.”

According to Mrs Tinubu, she had earlier met with Governor Caleb Mutfwang to express her intention to engage with traditional and religious leaders in the state.

“Today, I have come with a donation of one billion naira for the Renewed Hope Initiative. I do not have vast sums of money, but what I have is meant to bring life, not to pour money into a basket,” she explained.

“If I kept money for personal gain, it would only serve to satisfy greed. But my goal is to use the resources I have for good, for the development of this country, not to waste them.”

She also urged men in Plateau communities to play active roles in safeguarding their environment.

Recounting a memorable moment from her arrival, Tinubu said, “When I arrived at the airport, I remember the little girl who came to greet me with a bowl of fruits and vegetables, saying, ‘Welcome to the land of peace and tourism’. I knew at that moment that God had already spoken because, as the Bible says, ‘Out of the mouths of babes and sucklings, God has ordained perfect praise.’ From the mouth of this child, there shall be peace in this land. Amen.”

Reflecting on the reintroduction of the old national anthem by President Bola Tinubu, she highlighted the importance of national values and legacy.

“When Mr President decided to revert to the old national anthem this year, it brought back memories of the anthem that instilled patriotism and love for this land. When we hear the second stanza, ‘To hand on to our children a banner,’ we must reflect on our actions and the legacy we leave behind. But when we look at the killings, the rapes, and the terror, we must ask ourselves: have we truly protected our land?” she stated.

In a message to traditional rulers, Tinubu emphasised their enduring role in community stability.

“You are the custodians of this land. We as officeholders will come and go, but you will remain. Please, I urge you to bring peace to this land. God will help you to protect and preserve this land.”

She added, “My love for this country is not political; it’s about how this country has blessed me. As I grow older, I want to enjoy the beauty of this country, not be consumed by politics. And that is why I am here today—to appeal to you, the leaders, to do whatever it takes to bring peace to Plateau State.”

Governor Mutfwang, while expressing gratitude, described the First Lady as the “mother of the nation,” praising her compassion and support for Plateau.

“We are truly delighted that she has taken Plateau to heart,” Mutfwang said.

Also present at the event, Nana Shettima, wife of the Vice President, spoke about the broader impact of the Renewed Hope Initiative across the country.

“This initiative goes beyond just food distribution. It is about building a stronger, more compassionate community. The initiative also includes economic empowerment programmes, such as distributing grants of 50 million naira to each state and the Federal Capital Territory to support women petty traders.

“Additionally, cash grants of 200,000 naira each will be provided to 250 persons with disabilities in every state,” she said.

Other speakers, including the Emir of Wase, Dr Mohammed Sambo Haruna; the President of the Church of Christ in Nations, Dr Amos Mohzo; and Professor Rahila Gowon, representing Plateau women, applauded the First Lady’s intervention and offered prayers for sustained peace in the region.