Nigeria's First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has been actively продвигая her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) with a focus on improving healthcare, economic empowerment, and social welfare across the nation. Recent events in Ondo State showcase the multifaceted approach of the RHI, targeting various segments of the population with specific interventions.

Distribution of Professional Kits to Nurses and Midwives

On Thursday, Senator Oluremi Tinubu spearheaded the distribution of professional kits to 10,000 midwives and nurses in the South-West states, including Ondo, Ekiti, Osun, Oyo, Ogun, and Lagos. This initiative is a core component of the RHI, designed to reduce infant and maternal mortality and morbidity. The event, held in Akure, Ondo State, featured the distribution of scrubs and Crocs, with a broader plan to distribute 60,000 kits across all six geopolitical zones. The First Lady emphasized that providing the right tools and kits is essential to encourage midwives and improve healthcare delivery.

“We are here today to flag off the distribution of the professional kits which will be distributed among the states in each zone,” she stated. “Since the initial launch in January 2025, we have distributed the professional kits in four zones, namely North Central, North East, North West and South South. Today, we are in Ondo State to distribute the kits for the South West, making this the fifth zone. By the grace of God, we will be concluding with the sixth zone in Enugu, South East zone in June.”

This donation was made possible through the support of an anonymous global partner, underscoring the importance of international collaboration in achieving health objectives. Mrs. Tinubu highlighted her interactions with this partner at the United Nations General Assembly in 2023 and the African Union Summit in 2024, noting the donor's commitment to improving health outcomes in Nigeria.

Launch of Free to Shine Campaign and Triple Elimination Initiative

In addition to the distribution of professional kits, Mrs. Tinubu launched the Free to Shine campaign and the Triple Elimination Initiative, which targets HIV/AIDS, syphilis, and hepatitis among women of reproductive age. This initiative aims to enhance the capacity of healthcare workers and promote healthier mothers by reducing new HIV infections and eliminating mother-to-child transmission.

“Tomorrow, by the grace of God, I will be launching the free to shine triple elimination campaign for HIV AIDS, syphilis and hepatitis here in Ondo State,” she announced. “This initiative aims to promote healthier mothers, reduce new HIV infections among women of reproductive age, eliminate mother to child transmission of HIV, which is also the vertical transmission and provide treatment for children born with HIV.”

The First Lady commended the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali, and Dr. Salako for their partnership and efforts. She also acknowledged the dedication of the Executive Director and CEO of the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Muyi Aina, and his team.

Economic Empowerment and Social Investment

The Renewed Hope Initiative extends beyond healthcare, with targeted interventions in agriculture, economic empowerment, education, and social investment. Mrs. Tinubu announced a grant of 50 million Naira to the First Lady of Ondo State to support 1,000 women petty traders, providing each with 50,000 Naira to recapitalize their businesses. Additionally, 200 women in textile production will receive materials and resources to support their businesses.

“Today will be, after we leave this hall, we are also empowering about 200 women who are in textile businesses. We brought about some 400 bales of African free and we’re going to give two bales each to one of the 200 women and part of the 1,000 women to be empowered, 200 of them would also get the grant of 50,000,” she explained.

Support for Women Farmers

The RHI has secured a N400 billion intervention fund from the Ministry of Agriculture, with each state receiving N68.9 million to support women farmers. This initiative, along with programs like the Young Farmers’ Club and Women’s Gardening Initiative, aims to boost food production and empower women in agriculture.

Engagement with Traditional Rulers

Senator Tinubu also engaged with traditional rulers in the South West, urging them to support efforts to eliminate Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), Hepatitis B, HIV/AIDS, and other health challenges affecting women. She emphasized the importance of eradicating harmful practices and promoting menstrual hygiene through the “Flow With Confidence” campaign, which plans to distribute 10,000 sanitary pads to girls in each state, focusing on rural areas.

Appreciation and Support

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, expressed his gratitude for the First Lady’s philanthropic efforts, recognizing the profound impact on maternal and child health. Traditional rulers, including the Chairman of the state Council of Obas and Olowo of Owo, Gbadegesin Ogunoye, pledged their support for the First Lady’s initiatives.

National Leader of Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, also praised the Tinubu administration's performance, highlighting the government's commitment to national development.

Future Initiatives

Looking ahead, Senator Tinubu announced plans to launch a scholarship scheme for students and an alternative high school for girls in Ondo State. These initiatives are tailored to provide education and childcare support for teenage mothers through on-site crèches.

The Renewed Hope Initiative continues to expand its reach, addressing critical needs in healthcare, economic empowerment, and social welfare, with a focus on creating sustainable improvements in the lives of Nigerian families.