By Sunday Apah
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has described the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, as a significant blessing to the nation, praising her humility and dedicated advocacy for the less privileged.
The governor expressed these sentiments on Thursday during a grand homecoming reception for Senator Tinubu at the palace of the Olu of Warri. He highlighted her consistent record of public service, both as a senator and in her current role.
Addressing the enthusiastic gathering, Governor Oborevwori commended the First Lady’s impactful tenure in the Senate, where she focused on policy initiatives designed to benefit citizens. He noted that her deep care for vulnerable communities is widely recognized.
“Her steadfast service in the Senate speaks for itself,” Oborevwori stated. “The nation is truly fortunate to have a First Lady characterized by such genuine compassion and commitment to uplifting the poor.”
The governor also recalled Senator Tinubu’s previous official visits to Delta State, including the launch of the Renewed Hope Initiative’s South-South empowerment program in August 2024 and the “Free to Shine” healthcare initiative in March 2025, which provided thousands of professional kits to midwives.
He particularly appreciated her deep respect for traditional institutions, noting that her courtesy toward royal fathers has fostered strong collaborative relationships. “That demonstration of respect has been invaluable. Her support has been constant, and we are grateful,” he added.
Governor Oborevwori also pointed to the First Lady’s international stature, referencing her recognition at the 4th National Prayer Congress in the United States as evidence of her global respect.
Reaffirming Delta State’s support for the federal administration, the governor assured the First Lady of the state’s alignment with the national Renewed Hope Agenda. He also detailed ongoing infrastructure projects in the Warri area, such as the newly completed Trans-Warri Road and the Enerhen flyover.
In her response, Senator Tinubu expressed profound gratitude for the heartfelt welcome, describing her return to Warri as an emotional homecoming. She thanked the Olu of Warri for the honour and reflected on her Itsekiri heritage as a cornerstone of her values.
Emphasizing national unity, she pointed to the concurrent observance of Lent and Ramadan as a divine call for harmony, urging Nigerians to transcend ethnic and religious divisions.
As part of her Renewed Hope Initiative, the First Lady announced a N50 million support package for 1,000 women in petty trading within the kingdom and pledged further collaborative support for young men in the state.
Earlier, the Olu of Warri, HRM Ogiame Atuwatse III, welcomed Senator Tinubu, describing her visit as a divinely orchestrated event symbolizing unity and progress for the region and the country. He praised her grace and dedication and presented her with formal requests from the kingdom.
The event was attended by numerous dignitaries, including former Governor Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, federal and state lawmakers, and traditional leaders. The occasion featured vibrant cultural performances and widespread displays of support, which Governor Oborevwori characterized as a testament to public appreciation for dedicated and compassionate leadership.
