The Ooni of Ife, Arole Oduduwa, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, has felicitated with the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on the occasion of her 66th birthday, commending her years of public service and humanitarian engagement.
Senator Oluremi Tinubu marked her 66th birthday on Monday, September 21, 2026, with messages of goodwill from across the country, including a personal tribute from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who described her as his “truest friend and confidante” and reflected on their years together.
In his congratulatory message, the Ooni, who is the Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC), Arole Oodua Olofin Adimula and Natural Head of the Oduduwa race worldwide, described the First Lady as a woman whose life has remained dedicated to service, compassion and the advancement of humanity.
The monarch, who is also Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN), joined members of Senator Tinubu’s family, associates and Nigerians across the country in celebrating her milestone.
The message was conveyed on Monday by the Senior Media Officer of the Ooni’s Palace, Sodiq Lawal, on behalf of the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Otunba Moses Olafare.
Ooni Ogunwusi commended Senator Tinubu for her years of public service and her commitment to issues concerning women, children, families and vulnerable members of society.
According to the monarch, attaining the age of 66 offers an opportunity to reflect on the First Lady’s journey in public service and the various initiatives through which she has sought to contribute to the welfare of Nigerians.
He also noted her involvement in humanitarian causes, saying her initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of vulnerable Nigerians had continued to attract recognition within and outside the country.
The Ooni particularly recalled the conferment of the traditional chieftaincy title, Yeye Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile Oodua, on Senator Tinubu at the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife during activities marking his 10th coronation anniversary in December 2025.
He said the conferment represented recognition of her contributions to society as well as her connection with the cultural heritage of the Yoruba people.
“As Yeye Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile Oodua, you occupy a position of great honour within the Oodua race, and we are proud to celebrate you on this special occasion,” the Ooni said.
Ooni Ogunwusi described the birthday as a moment for thanksgiving and reflection, while praying for greater wisdom, strength, peace and fulfilment for the First Lady in the new chapter of her life.
He further prayed for continued divine guidance for Senator Tinubu as she discharges her responsibilities to the nation, particularly in supporting initiatives focused on women, children and families.
The Ooni said:
“I warmly felicitate with our mother, Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Yeye Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile Oodua, on the occasion of her 66th birthday.
“This is not only a celebration of age, but also a celebration of a life devoted to service, compassion and humanity. Over the years, you have demonstrated commitment to the welfare of our people, particularly women, children and families.
“At 66, I pray that Almighty Olodumare will continue to strengthen you, increase you in wisdom and grant you sound health, peace and greater opportunities to continue serving humanity.
“May the years ahead bring you greater fulfilment, and may your efforts for the advancement of our people and our dear nation continue to yield positive results.
“Happy 66th birthday to our mother, Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Yeye Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile Oodua.”
The Ooni’s message comes as other Nigerians and public figures also marked the First Lady’s birthday. President Tinubu, in his own birthday tribute, highlighted her longstanding humanitarian work, referencing initiatives from the New Era Foundation to the Renewed Hope Initiative and her support for women, children, elderly citizens and other vulnerable groups.
Senator Oluremi Tinubu served as First Lady of Lagos State before representing Lagos Central in the Senate from 2011 to 2023. She is currently the First Lady of Nigeria.