First Lady says Renewed Hope Initiative non-partisan, urges support for health campaigns

By Kunle Sanni –

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has reaffirmed that programmes under her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) are non-partisan and aimed solely at improving the lives of Nigerians.

Speaking during an interactive meeting with traditional rulers and religious leaders in Lagos on Friday, Mrs. Tinubu described the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution as an opportunity to clearly define the constitutional role of traditional rulers in national development.

“As custodians of tradition and culture, you are closest to the grassroots, and your influence cannot be overstated,” she told the gathering.

The First Lady urged leaders to intensify advocacy on tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS testing and to encourage HPV vaccination for girls. She also announced two upcoming RHI programmes: the Green Nigeria Challenge, designed to promote environmental sustainability, and Flow With Confidence, which will provide adolescent girls in rural areas with a one-year supply of sanitary towels to help them remain in school during menstruation.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu commended Mrs. Tinubu’s efforts in agriculture, education, health, and economic empowerment, highlighting initiatives that have supported women and youth farmers, awarded scholarships to girls, and backed campaigns to end tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and cervical cancer.

Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers present, Oba Kabiru Shotobi, the Ayangburen of Ikorodu and Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, appealed to the First Lady to extend her advocacy to alternative schooling opportunities for boys.

Mrs. Tinubu’s visit to Lagos continues on Saturday with the RHI/SDG Women Empowerment Programme, which will benefit 500 women, followed by the commissioning of the Lagos State Leather Hub.