The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Thursday called on citizens to present a favorable image of the nation both within and outside the country, emphasizing that the time when Nigeria was considered the most corrupt in the world has ended.
She placed the call from Akko during the opening of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Kumo, where she was bestowed a traditional title and also introduced her new program, "Flow With Confidence," designed to assist young schoolgirls with free sanitary pads.
Our reporter states that Tinubu made an announcement during a two-day Health Summit in Gombe.
Addressing us as Nigerians: cease criticizing your country. Those days when they claimed Nigeria is the most corrupt nation are over. You won't hear that anymore. Even when I travel abroad, once people find out you're from Nigeria, everyone becomes interested. They want to visit Nigeria. Nigeria is the next big destination.
Those days are gone when they claimed Nigeria was the most corrupt country. You won't hear that anymore.
"Even when I travel overseas, once people find out I'm from Nigeria, everyone becomes curious. They wish to visit Nigeria. Nigeria is the upcoming destination. We should be proud of our country," she stated.
The First Lady introduced her main project under the Renewed Hope Initiative, aimed at tackling menstrual hygiene issues faced by young girls. She mentioned that 10,000 girls in Gombe State would instantly gain access to a one-year supply of disposable sanitary pads, helping them maintain regular school attendance.
No girl should be prevented from attending school over minor issues," she stated. "I don't support reusable sanitary products — they aren't safe for our children. What we've done is provide every girl who can't afford them with a one-year supply of disposable sanitary pads. This ensures they can attend school without any problems for an entire year.
She stated that the initiative is currently active in 12 states, with ₦2 billion already pledged, out of an estimated ₦600 billion required to implement it nationwide. "The company manufacturing the pads is overwhelmed, but they are handling it well. I think corporate entities can also support us in this endeavor," she mentioned, encouraging state governments and private stakeholders to work together.
Tinubu highlighted the significance of traditional institutions and religious leaders in supporting government initiatives at the local level. "We trust traditional rulers because we believe you are the guardians of the land. Our roles are temporary, but yours is not," she mentioned.
You will remain present, and we recognize this role. That is why I consistently reach out to traditional and religious leaders to assist us in implementing our initiatives at the community level.
The First Lady also warned against extravagant spending on opulent lifestyles and international events, encouraging Nigerians to channel funds into local growth. “If we set our priorities correctly as Nigerians and avoid being extravagant with all these large parties and overseas weddings — which benefit nations that already have their own resources — we can improve our country,” she stated. “We have attractive locations within Nigeria. Let us focus our investments here.”
She also conveyed her belief that Nigeria would successfully address its present security issues, reminiscing about a period when the nation was safer and more cohesive. "In our time, this country was secure. I worked in Kano. We traveled everywhere without fear. By the mercy of Allah, that era is returning, and we will regain it," she stated.
While visiting, Mrs. Tinubu received a traditional title in Akko. She called the recognition as a humbling experience and promised to remain supportive of the people of Gombe. "I feel very comfortable in Gombe, and I am honored to be one of you. Knowing that you have recognized me brings me pride in being part of this place. I will strive to not let you down, and I will convey your message to the President," she stated.
The First Lady also showed appreciation for Gombe's natural beauty, likening it to the English countryside. "Your landscape is stunning. I've never seen anything like this before. It's something you see in the London countryside, but I'm experiencing it right here in Gombe," she said.
In closing her statement, Mrs. Tinubu highlighted that her efforts are motivated by a wish to create a lasting impact. "I am 65 years old now. I hope I live a long life, but I am working very hard so that when my husband's term ends, I too can move about with confidence. That is what inspires me to carry out this work," she mentioned.
Previously, Governor Muhammadu Yahaya declared the full implementation of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) for all healthcare professionals in the state, starting from November 2025.
He mentioned that the choice represented a direct contribution to the well-being of healthcare professionals and would bring their pay in line with national guidelines.
"To enhance our dedication to the well-being of the healthcare professionals who sustain this system, I am happy to announce the immediate approval for the complete rollout of CONMESS and CONHESS salary frameworks for all health workers, starting November 2025, aligning their compensation with that of the federal government," Governor Yahaya stated.
He revealed that the new pay system would cost the state government ₦250 million each month, totaling ₦3 billion per year, calling it a courageous yet essential move to keep healthcare professionals motivated and dedicated to their roles.
This major initiative represents a direct investment in the well-being of our healthcare professionals," the governor stated. "In return, I urge all healthcare workers in Gombe State to demonstrate renewed commitment, maintain the highest levels of efficiency, and remain focused on enhancing the health and welfare of our community.
Yahaya stated that the initiative was a component of comprehensive reforms designed to establish an integrated healthcare system in Gombe State, connecting upgraded primary healthcare centers, improved hospitals, the contributory health scheme (GoHealth), and the state-run pharmaceutical project, GoPharma.
"these initiatives aim to provide high-quality healthcare across all levels, from primary to tertiary, making sure no individual is overlooked," he remarked.
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