Lagos: First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has called on traditional and religious leaders across Lagos State to promote federal government programmes within their communities actively.
Speaking during an interactive session with leaders across Lagos State on Friday, Oluremi emphasised the importance of moving beyond party lines post-election to ensure inclusive governance and the delivery of democratic dividends.
“There are a lot of things going on, party aside, once we win an election, people should go past party lines and let’s run the government, and the government involves people.
“Through the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), we have been able to change the mindset of opposition and we are all working together to make sure that we get all these programmes to the grassroots.”
Tinubu said that the meeting was imperative since the traditional rulers are the custodians of the land through which the grassroots people can easily benefit from the government at both federal, state and local government levels. She urged the people to extend love to one another and to stop blaming the government.
“This meeting is crucial. I know many people in Lagos will be wondering what is going on, but it always feels good to be home.
“It is best for me to see the custodians of the land and the religious leaders, just to intimidate you about our programmes.
“There are no ideas that we are doing now that are not in existence. What I am doing is taking a different look at the same thing some of our predecessors have done before.
“Right now, the 17-year-old Alternative High School for girls that we have in Lagos is going through renovation, and there is another one on the pipeline to be built in Ikorodu, but to be transferred to the state to run it as part of their schools.”
The first lady also announced that each of the Lagos traditional rulers would get two slots of alternative free high school for their people through the Universal Basic Education Board.
Tinubu reaffirmed her commitment to supporting policies and programmes that promote peace, development, and the well-being of all Nigerians.
Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos commended the first lady for her leadership role in ensuring the government under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership became successful.
He acknowledged the first lady’s impact on the citizens through the RHI programme, which he said has also been extended to Lagos.
The governor also appreciated the leaders across the state for supporting his government and for attending the meeting.
“Their prayers are with us. It is not a coincidence that this visit comes during Isese Week. It shows our traditional institution is alive and vibrant. We also recognise our religious leaders, and this government values your interventions in all spheres of life.
“Our first lady has birthed new ideas and levels of governance using her office. Her initiative is touching lives and bringing hope, especially to older people and the vulnerable.
“She has toured the nation, engaging with regional leaders and using her experience, intellect, and compassion to uplift communities,” Sanwo-Olu said.
Also speaking, the Ayangbure of Ikorodu, Oba Kabiru Shotobi, who spoke on behalf of other traditional rulers in the state, appreciated the First Lady for her various impactful projects across the country.
He called for a constitutional role for traditional rulers, improved welfare, youth empowerment, girl-child education, leadership training, and legal recognition for Local Council Development Areas in the state.
