Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has revealed how fear, doubt, and feelings of betrayal clouded her early days as First Lady after the 2023 general elections.
In her newly released 52-page memoir, The Journey of Grace: Giving Thanks in All Things, published to mark her 65th birthday, Mrs. Tinubu shares deeply personal reflections about the challenges she faced stepping into one of the most scrutinized roles in the country.
The book, divided into five chapters spanning 2021–2025, features a foreword by Dr. Folashade Olukoya of Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries.
Overwhelmed by Fear and Betrayal
Mrs. Tinubu admitted that in the days after the elections, she questioned her readiness to serve as First Lady of Africa’s most populous nation.
“For days, I isolated, pondering my ability to play the supportive and complementary role without messing up,” she wrote.
She disclosed that despite her husband’s victory, she often cried in private, struggling with feelings of betrayal from political allies she once considered close friends and even family.
“While some abandoned me, God used others to comfort and reassure me of His purpose,” she revealed.
“Pity Parties” and Renewed Faith
The First Lady candidly admitted that she held what she called “pity parties,” questioning her own strength until spiritual mentors reminded her of God’s promises.
“Somewhere along the way, I forgot because the drowning voices of naysayers clouded my reasoning. Until I was reminded again of all God has spoken over my life,” she wrote.
Preparing for the Role
Despite the emotional strain, Mrs. Tinubu said she eventually redirected her focus to responsibilities ahead of her husband’s inauguration on May 29, 2023.
Her first task was to design a programme aligned with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which she named the Renewed Hope Initiative, with focus areas in:
Agriculture
Economic Empowerment
Education
Health
Social Investment
She also paid close attention to the inauguration’s personal details, ensuring her husband’s attire was a priority. Eventually, she secured the traditional royal fabric Alari, which she wore on the historic day.
The Muslim-Muslim Ticket Fallout
Mrs. Tinubu also admitted the emotional toll of her husband’s Muslim-Muslim ticket, which divided the Christian community, including her own church, the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).
“My being a Christian did not matter. My local Assembly was split,” she revealed, noting that the moment highlighted Nigeria’s political diversity even within the church.
Looking Back
Despite betrayals, doubts, and controversies, the First Lady said her faith restored her confidence, urging her to focus on her role and the greater purpose ahead.
“The campaign itself took its toll, but God sustained us. It was time to heal, move forward, and prepare for the work ahead,” she concluded.
