The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has launched a major empowerment initiative targeting 10,000 nurses and midwives across the South West region.
The project, which is part of her signature programme, the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), is aimed at supporting frontline health workers by equipping them with professional kits to enhance service delivery and boost morale.
This was made known during a press briefing by Seun Osamaye, Special Adviser to Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Women and Mobilisation. Osamaye said the empowerment programme is part of activities lined up for the First Lady’s official visit to Ondo State, scheduled for April 17 and 18, 2025.
According to Osamaye, Senator Tinubu’s visit will not only mark the official flag-off of the healthcare intervention but will also include several other support programmes targeted at women and youths.
Speaking to journalists, Osamaye said the First Lady’s initiative comes at a crucial time when Nigeria’s healthcare sector continues to face challenges such as brain drain, inadequate equipment, and low staff morale.
“This empowerment for 10,000 nurses and midwives is timely and commendable. The professional kits they will receive will aid their work and show that their service is appreciated,” Osamaye said.
She further explained that the programme is not limited to Ondo State but covers the entire Southwest region, which includes Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Ekiti states. Health workers from both public and private facilities are expected to benefit.
Although the contents of the professional kits were not disclosed, sources say they include essential tools and materials that nurses and midwives need in their daily work, such as uniforms, stethoscopes, thermometers, and hygiene supplies.
Healthcare stakeholders have welcomed the initiative, calling it a step in the right direction to motivate and retain healthcare workers, many of whom are leaving the country in search of better opportunities abroad.
Beyond the healthcare sector, the First Lady is also using her visit to empower women entrepreneurs. Osamaye revealed that over 200 women involved in textile production across Ondo State will receive financial assistance to support and grow their small businesses.
The beneficiaries are drawn from all 18 local government areas of the state, and the selection process was described as transparent, inclusive, and free of political influence.
“There is no need for political connections to benefit. Whether you are an indigene or a resident, you qualify. This is an inclusive government that cares about everyone,” Osamaye said.
She explained that the financial support will help the women purchase equipment, raw materials, and improve production capacity. This is expected to boost local economies and promote self-reliance among women, especially in rural areas.
Osamaye also highlighted some of the other components of the Renewed Hope Initiative. These include scholarships for students from low-income families, youth development programmes, and women empowerment schemes covering agriculture, trade, and skills acquisition.
Since becoming Nigeria’s First Lady in 2023, Senator Tinubu has rolled out several community-focused programmes across the country, often using her position to highlight the needs of women, youth, and vulnerable groups.
In recent months, she has visited several states with similar initiatives focused on maternal health, girl-child education, and support for widows and the elderly.
Political observers say her approach mirrors that of her time as the former First Lady of Lagos State, when she was known for grassroots engagement and social support programmes.
Health professionals and advocacy groups have praised the initiative, urging the federal government to complement such efforts with long-term reforms in the healthcare system.
Mrs. Bukola Adeniyi, a senior nurse in Akure, said the gesture is encouraging. “It feels good to be recognised. We are often the first and last contact for patients, yet our work is overlooked. This support will go a long way,” she said.
Others stressed the need to ensure follow-up and sustainability. “While empowerment is good, we must ensure that it doesn’t stop at distribution. There should be training and monitoring to make sure the impact is lasting,” said Mr. Akin Ajayi, a public health analyst.
Some residents also expressed hope that the financial assistance for textile workers will open doors for more government support in other sectors such as agriculture and food processing.
The Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) was launched by Senator Oluremi Tinubu shortly after her husband, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, assumed office in May 2023. The initiative is designed to tackle poverty, promote education, and support vulnerable populations through targeted interventions.
Under the RHI, programmes have been carried out in different parts of the country, especially in underserved areas. These include medical outreaches, food distribution, school supplies for children, and entrepreneurship training.
Senator Tinubu, a former senator and three-time First Lady of Lagos State, is known for her passion for community service and social development. Her office has often collaborated with state governments, NGOs, and international partners to deliver interventions across health, education, and economic empowerment.
As the First Lady arrives in Ondo State for her two-day visit, expectations are high among residents and health workers who hope to benefit from the various programmes.
The state government has already begun preparations to host her, with security tightened and logistics in place for a smooth visit.
Osamaye concluded by urging beneficiaries to make good use of the opportunity, while encouraging more private and public stakeholders to support the vision of the Renewed Hope Initiative.
“This is about building a better future, one person at a time. Whether it’s a nurse, a midwife, a trader, or a student, everyone has a role to play in national development,” she said.
