Enugu State was filled with excitement and celebration as the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, paid a special two day visit. Her arrival was not just about politics or ceremony, it was about recognizing the culture, supporting health care, and showing love to the people of Enugu.
From the moment she stepped into the state, the First Lady’s visit touched many lives and sent a powerful message of unity, tradition, and progress.
Those in attendance at the event, which was held at the International Conference Centre, ICC, Enugu, were the wife of the Vice President, Hajiya Nana Shettima; wife of the Deputy President of the Senate, Hajiya Laila Barau; First Lady of Imo State, Barr. Chioma Uzodinma; Jm Hajiya Hadiza Umar Namadi of Jigawa State, Dr. Falmata Zulum of Borno State, Priscilla Otti of Abia State, Dr. Claudia Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, and Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun of Ogun State.
Others were the wife of the governor of Osun State, Mrs. Titilayo Adeleke and Dr. Gloria Diri of Bayelsa State, while Benue State was represented by the Special Advisor to the Governor on Women Affairs, Scholastica Ben-so
Honored as “Ugosimba I of Enugu”
One of the biggest highlights of her visit was when the traditional rulers of Enugu came together to honor her with a chieftaincy title. Senator Oluremi Tinubu was officially named the “Ugosimba I of Enugu”a title that means “The Precious Eagle from Another Kingdom.”
This title was not given lightly. It represents the love and appreciation of the people of Enugu for the First Lady’s contributions to the country, especially her efforts to improve the lives of women, children, and vulnerable groups. The ceremony was colorful and full of traditional dances, songs, and blessings. Many royal fathers and leaders from different parts of the state were present, and they spoke about how much they admired her courage, compassion, and leadership.
In her response, Mrs. Tinubu thanked the traditional rulers and promised to continue working hard to support Nigerian families and promote peace and developmen.
Beyond the traditional celebrations, the First Lady came with a serious mission—to improve the health of Nigerians, especially mothers and children. At the Enugu International Conference Centre, she launched the “Free to Shine Triple Elimination Campaign.”
This special campaign is focused on ending three deadly diseases in Nigeria:
HIV/AIDS
Syphilis
Hepatitis B
These diseases are very dangerous, especially for pregnant women and babies. Many women don’t even know they are infected because the symptoms can be silent at first. The “Free to Shine” campaign is designed to:
Provide free testing for these diseases
Offer counseling and treatment for those affected
Help mothers have healthy, disease free babies
Spread awareness in communities through education
Governor Peter Mbah and his wife, along with several health officials, welcomed this campaign with open arms. They praised the First Lady’s commitment and assured her that Enugu State would give its full support to make sure the campaign succeeds.
Mrs. Tinubu explained that this campaign is not just for Enugu alone it will spread across all 36 states in Nigeria. She called on community leaders, health workers, and everyone in society to join hands in this fight against diseases.
During her visit, the First Lady did not just attend formal events. She made time to meet market women, youth groups, traditional leaders, health workers, and civil society organizations. Her message to them was simple and clear:
“You are not alone. Your voice matters. Your health matters. And your future matters.”
She encouraged women to speak up for their rights, visit health centers regularly, and take care of their families. She also gave out empowerment materials and support packages to several groups, including widows, young girls, and people with disabilities.
For many in Enugu, this visit was the first time they saw such attention given to their daily challenges and health needs from someone so high in government.
Governor Peter Mbah called the visit a “historic moment” for the state. He said:
“We are proud to host the First Lady. Her love for our people and her work to end HIV, hepatitis, and syphilis shows true leadership. Enugu will continue to support the President’s vision for a better Nigeria.”
As the First Lady returned to Abuja, she left behind more than gifts and good wishes she left behind hope. Her visit reminded the people of Enugu that they are seen, heard, and loved by their leaders.The “Free to Shine” campaign is expected to save lives, improve health services, and inspire many women and families to take control of their health.
C0nclusion
Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s visit to Enugu was more than a routine trip. It was a journey filled with purpose and passion. From receiving a royal title to launching a powerful health campaign, she showed what it truly means to be a leader with heart.In a time when many are struggling with health challenges and poverty, the First Lady’s visit brought smiles, healing, and a renewed sense of togetherness.Enugu will not forget this visit.
And Nigeria will continue to shine free, strong, and unite
