‘We want to see every child safe’ — Remi Tinubu praises release of abducted schoolchildren

Oluremi Tinubu, the first lady of Nigeria, has hailed the swift release of the recently abducted schoolchildren, describing it as the fastest in the country’s history.

Tinubu spoke in Abuja on Thursday during the third annual special Christmas brunch she hosted for children from foster homes in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Reaffirming her commitment to keeping the celebration focused on disadvantaged children, the president’s wife said she did not invite ministers’ children or those from wealthy families to the brunch.

“This is for those who really need it,” the first lady said.

She led the children in a reading session from her book, The Christmas Story, which reimagines the nativity tale using Nigerian characters.

“I wanted to create a Christmas story where the heroes are blacks, where children could see themselves in the story. We own this story with our rich culture and tradition,” she said.

The first lady said encouraging children to take pride in their culture is essential to shaping their confidence and sense of identity.

“It is my culture that really gives me good self-esteem. I know who I am and whose I am,” she added.

The event also featured personal introductions from the children, who shared their future ambitions, including engineering, medicine, baking, law, the military and even the presidency.

Santa Claus made an appearance, while the children enjoyed jollof rice, fried rice, Chinese noodles, sweet treats, and gifts from the first lady.

Addressing State House correspondents after the event, Tinubu lamented the country’s rising security challenges, particularly the recent abductions of schoolchildren.

“It is very sad; it’s disheartening. But you can see, Mr President has done the needful. They’ve gone after them,” she said.

“We want to see every child safe.”

She linked the children’s enthusiasm at the event with hope for Nigeria’s future, noting their determination to contribute to national security.

“All those students here are ready. They said, ‘I want to be a soldier.’ They are ready to protect the nation. They see what is going on and are planning. How do we arrest this? Before you get me, I’m going to get you,” she said.

Reflecting on the values that guide her philanthropy, Tinubu spoke about humility, generosity, and staying grounded despite privilege.

“You think because I have something, I give? At times, I give to zero. But why do I give? Because most people, when blessed, want to associate with those who are like them, but not me,” she said.

“When you fly high, you can fall like Humpty Dumpty. When you know who you are, you’re proud of your heritage and can share the favour God has given you.”

The first lady urged Nigerians to extend compassion to the less privileged in the coming year, saying, “we must start helping the common man.”

“Next year should be a year Nigerians reach out. Why do people not give?”