First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has made a heartfelt plea to those contemplating a nationwide protest, urging them to reconsider their actions due to the potential negative effects on Nigeria’s most vulnerable populations.
In her address, First Lady Tinubu encouraged the youth to harness their creativity and take advantage of the myriad opportunities available within the country. She underscored the government’s ongoing efforts to rejuvenate the economy and enhance Nigeria’s standing on the global stage.
Speaking to reporters at the State House in Abuja following a meeting with the spouses of state governors and leaders of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), she voiced her apprehensions regarding how the planned strike would adversely affect small businesses and street vendors.
Prior to the meeting, the First Lady led a moment of silence in honour of the late Ms. Onyeka Onwenu, a multifaceted talent and activist, who passed away in Lagos on Tuesday. She reflected on the profound impact Ms. Onwenu had on her life and expressed deep sorrow over her loss.
Mrs. Tinubu implored the protest organizers to think about the welfare of Nigerians who are already grappling with hardships, while also recognizing the government’s initiatives aimed at fostering a supportive environment for all citizens.
“Lagos is still healing from the aftermath of the #EndSARS protests, and it pains us to see that people might not fully grasp the consequences of their actions,” she stated. “Protests can be incredibly distracting, and I urge everyone to practice patience. We are here to work diligently because I aspire to leave a Nigeria that won’t burden me as I grow older.”
She acknowledged that while some may choose a path of destruction, the decision ultimately lies with them and the law. However, she expressed hope that they would reconsider their stance and not complicate life for those already facing significant challenges. “That’s why we’re channeling funds into the hands of small traders, providing grants of N50,000—not loans—to support their businesses.”
Highlighting past successes, she noted the positive outcomes of similar initiatives and urged others to refrain from hindering those who rely on daily earnings.
The First Lady emphasized that the current administration has been working tirelessly since its inception last year to create numerous opportunities for Nigerians, particularly in light of the newfound respect the country has gained internationally. However, she stressed that it is crucial for Nigerians to seize these opportunities.
“This government is committed to revitalizing our nation. The international community now views us with greater respect than before, and legitimate business interest in Nigeria is on the rise,” she remarked. “Our youth must step up, be innovative, and actively engage in these opportunities.”
She pointed out that countless individuals turned a profit during the COVID-19 pandemic by pivoting to produce sanitizers and other essential items. “When I visited Belarus, I found that everyone was eager to engage with Nigeria, which is now seen as a rising star on the global scene, and our youth must recognize this.”
On discussing new initiatives introduced by the administration, the First Lady highlighted her Young Farmers Club as a means to prepare citizens for the future. “The opportunities are abundant and different from what they used to be. We have to reach out and build on previous successes.”
She elaborated on her personal connection to agriculture, sharing her passion for cultivating herbs and vegetables that hold cultural significance. “We aim to instill this agricultural knowledge in the younger generation, reminiscent of the school farming programs I participated in during my primary education.”
Mrs. Tinubu concluded by stressing the importance of nurturing good initiatives for national growth. “It takes time to see tangible results, just like planting crops requires patience and care. This administration is dedicated to fostering such growth.”
