Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has described Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, as a compassionate leader whose humility and concern for the poor continue to impact lives across the country.
The governor spoke on Thursday at a grand homecoming reception held in honour of the First Lady at the palace of Ogiame Atuwatse III, where a jubilant crowd gathered early to welcome her.
Governor Oborevwori praised Senator Tinubu’s record of public service, particularly her tenure in the Senate, noting that she consistently championed policies aimed at improving the welfare of Nigerians.
“We can all attest to how she stood firm during her time in the Senate. Nigerians are blessed to have a humble and compassionate First Lady who genuinely cares for the poor and vulnerable in our communities,” he said.
Highlighting her engagements in Delta State, Oborevwori noted that the visit marked Senator Tinubu’s third official trip to the state within two years. He recalled her August 2024 visit to flag off the Renewed Hope Initiative empowerment programme for the South-South in Asaba, as well as her March 2025 visit to launch the Free to Shine programme, during which 10,000 professional kits were distributed to midwives across the region.
The governor also commended the First Lady’s respect for traditional institutions.
“That singular act of love and respect made a lot of things easier for me as governor. Even when we were in the opposition, she showed us love. God will continue to bless you,” he added.
Oborevwori further lauded Senator Tinubu’s international recognition, describing her as a global icon who has represented Nigeria with dignity.
“It is fitting to call you a global icon. We are proud of the way you represented Nigeria on the global stage,” he said.
Reaffirming Delta State’s support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the governor assured the First Lady of the state’s alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Please tell our leader, Mr. President, that Delta State stands firmly with him and his reforms for a better nation. You can always count on our support,” he stated.
The governor also outlined ongoing infrastructure projects in Warri and its environs, including the completion of the over 20-kilometre Trans-Warri Road with 15 bridges and the Enerhen flyover constructed by Julius Berger, with further extensions planned.
In her remarks, Senator Oluremi Tinubu described the reception as deeply moving, calling her visit to Warri a homecoming marked by gratitude and pride. She thanked the Olu of Warri for the honour conferred on her and reflected on her Itsekiri heritage.
On national unity, the First Lady noted the coincidental alignment of the Christian Lenten season and the Muslim fasting period as a call for togetherness.
As part of her Renewed Hope Initiative, she announced a ₦50 million empowerment support package for 1,000 women engaged in petty trading in the kingdom and pledged additional support for young men in collaboration with the state government.
Earlier, the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, described the visit as divinely ordained, praising the First Lady’s humility, grace, and steadfast support for the President.
The colourful event attracted prominent dignitaries, including Ifeanyi Okowa, Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, Emomotimi Guwor, Chiedu Ebie, and other top officials and traditional leaders.
The reception featured cultural displays and solidarity chants, underscoring the strong show of affection for the First Lady.