In a remarkable display of compassion ahead of the Christmas celebrations, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has provided a vital lifeline to vulnerable Christian communities in Northern Nigeria.
The First Lady’s generous gesture saw the donation of 22,800 bags of rice, aimed at alleviating the hardship faced by the less privileged. This gesture comes at a time when many families in the region are struggling with economic challenges, exacerbated by rising costs and inflation.
Each of the 19 states in the northern region will receive 1,200 bags of rice as part of the palliative effort. In addition, Senator Tinubu allocated N5 million to each state to cover the transportation costs of the relief items. This strategic move ensures that the rice reaches those who need it the most without delay.
The event took place in Kaduna, where key political figures and dignitaries gathered to witness the handover of the food items. Governors Dikko Radda of Katsina, Hyacinth Alia of Benue, Mai Mala Buni of Yobe, and the host, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna, were all in attendance to show support for the initiative.
Senator Tinubu, visibly moved by the warm reception she received, took the opportunity to express her gratitude. She thanked the Northern Christian Political Forum for their unwavering support and faith in the journey she had embarked on.
In her address, she recalled a similar initiative she had undertaken in Imo State with the wife of the Vice President, Hajiya Nana Shettima.
“Thank you for believing in this journey even when political challenges arose,” Senator Tinubu said. “We as Christians know that ingratitude is a great sin. When Jesus healed the 10 lepers, only one returned to give thanks, and Jesus asked, ‘Where are the other nine?’”
This reflection on gratitude echoed throughout the event, underlining the importance of kindness and appreciation, even in the face of adversity.
The First Lady also acknowledged several important figures who have supported her in her philanthropic efforts. These included the wife of the Vice President, the wife of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hajiya Fatima Abbas; the wife of the Deputy Senate President, Hajiya Miriam Barau; and other notable personalities like the Minister of Agriculture, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, and the wife of the Minister of State for Trade and Investment, Mrs. Rachel Owan-Enoh.
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna took the opportunity to speak about Senator Tinubu’s character, describing her as a caring and compassionate mother of the nation.
“She is a woman who has devoted her life to the service of humanity,” Governor Sani said. “Her generosity knows no bounds.”
The Governor went on to praise the First Lady for her continuous efforts to uplift the underprivileged, both during her time as Lagos State’s First Lady and in her legislative work in the 9th Senate. He also noted that her social intervention programmes, such as the Renewed Hope Schemes for the Elderly and Women, have had a profound impact on many lives.
Governor Sani’s remarks highlighted the importance of the initiative within the broader context of the Tinubu administration’s social welfare efforts. The Governor pointed out that the distribution of these palliatives aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s pledge to alleviate the economic hardships faced by many Nigerians.
“Our dear President is a listening leader who hears the cries of the people and takes steps to address economic challenges,” Governor Sani said. “The future looks bright.”
He went on to discuss the Kaduna State government’s efforts to support the vulnerable through various financial inclusion programmes and social intervention initiatives. These efforts, according to the Governor, have been instrumental in helping to alleviate the struggles of those most in need.
The Governor also highlighted the success of the Kaduna Peace Model, a conflict resolution initiative that has become a reference point for other states in Nigeria. This model has contributed to the improvement of security and unity in the state.
In the spirit of the festive season, Governor Sani urged the people of Kaduna State to use this time to promote peace and unity. He called on them to embrace the peaceful atmosphere that has been restored in the state, encouraging them to consolidate this progress for the benefit of all.
“Our dear state has bounced back to reckoning,” he said. “Let us consolidate the prevailing peaceful atmosphere.”
