Wife of Nigeria’s President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has announced a donation of ₦1 billion, alongside food and clothing, to victims affected by the recent violent clashes in Plateau State.
The donation, made on behalf of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), was disclosed during her visit to the state where she expressed solidarity and support to the affected communities.
In a statement released by her media aide, Busola Kukoyi, on Wednesday, the First Lady emphasized that her visit was not political but deeply humanitarian, coming as a mother heartbroken by the persistent violence. She appealed to elders and leaders within the communities to seek lasting reconciliation and guard against further disunity and bloodshed.
“I come in as a mother whose heart bleeds,” she said. “I assure you, this is the last time I will have to visit the state for this kind of intervention. And I pray God will honour this. Do not give room to the serpent to enter the edge and assault you. Mend the broken edge. This is enough. Nigeria is a beautiful country.”
Mrs. Tinubu recalled a moving moment at the airport when a young girl welcomed her to “the land of peace and tourism,” and she expressed hope that Plateau State would return to that identity.
She urged the men in the affected communities to protect their women and children, enabling them to continue their trade and farming without fear. She also called on the youth to choose peace and national unity over conflict and division.
Governor Caleb Mutfwuang, in his response, thanked the First Lady for her compassion and generous support. He assured her and the nation that the funds and items donated would be used solely for their intended purpose.
“I take full responsibility for the funds you have brought to us. I pledge that we will not hold back. We will disburse it to those for whom it is meant, and no elite will hijack it,” Mutfwuang stated.
He also echoed Mrs. Tinubu’s call for peace, vowing that the state government would mend broken relationships and foster unity across its communities.
The event was attended by notable figures including the wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima, the Plateau State Council of Traditional Rulers, religious leaders, market unions, youth representatives, and security agencies.
What you should know
Oluremi Tinubu’s visit to Plateau State led to the donation of ₦1 billion and relief materials for victims of communal clashes. Emphasizing peace and reconciliation, she appealed to community leaders and youth to halt the cycle of violence, while the state governor pledged transparent use of the funds.
