Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has unveiled a N50 million empowerment package for 1,000 women involved in petty trading in Warri, Delta State. The support forms part of her Renewed Hope Initiative, a platform focused on improving the welfare of women and vulnerable groups across the country.
She made the announcement during a grand homecoming reception held at the palace of the Olu of Warri. The event drew political leaders, traditional rulers, and residents who gathered to welcome her warmly. The First Lady also disclosed plans to extend additional support to young men in collaboration with the Delta State Government, broadening the scope of the intervention beyond women traders.
Speaking at the palace, Senator Tinubu described the reception as deeply emotional and meaningful. She said returning to Warri felt like coming home and expressed gratitude for the cultural displays and honour accorded to her. She specifically thanked the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, for the respect shown to her, noting that special considerations were made to accommodate her within the kingdom’s traditional framework.
The First Lady reflected on her Itsekiri heritage, describing it as foundational to her values, discipline, and approach to public service. She also spoke about national unity, pointing to the overlap of the Christian Lenten season and the Muslim fasting period as a symbolic moment for reflection and togetherness. Citing Psalm 133, she encouraged Nigerians to rise above ethnic and religious differences and work toward shared national goals.
In his remarks, Ogiame Atuwatse III described the visit as divinely inspired and symbolic of a new season of unity and healing for the Niger Delta and Nigeria. He commended the First Lady’s humility and consistent support for her husband, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, assuring her of the kingdom’s prayers and solidarity.
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, praised Senator Tinubu as compassionate and committed to the welfare of ordinary Nigerians. He described her as a proud daughter of the Itsekiri nation with a strong record of service.
Governor Oborevwori recalled her previous engagements in the state, including the August 2024 launch of the Renewed Hope Initiative empowerment programme for the South-South in Asaba and her March 2025 visit to introduce the Free to Shine programme, which distributed 10,000 professional kits to midwives in the region. He also noted her consistent respect for traditional institutions, describing it as a quality that strengthens governance and collaboration.
The governor reaffirmed Delta State’s support for President Tinubu’s reform agenda and outlined ongoing infrastructure projects in Warri, including the completion of the over 20-kilometre Trans-Warri Road with 15 bridges and the Enerhen flyover constructed by Julius Berger. The reception ended with colourful cultural performances, solidarity chants, and a strong show of affection for the First Lady.
