Eya : Ogun State is in deep mourning as former First Lady, Mama Lucia Onabanjo, passes on at the ripe age of 101. President Bola Tinubu has also reacted to the painful loss, describing her as a woman of compassion, humility, and strong support for her late husband, former Governor Victor Olabisi Onabanjo. In his condolence message, Tinubu sympathised with the Onabanjo family, friends, and all those whose lives Mama Lucia touched, praising her lifelong dedication to women, children, and community service. He noted that her kindness and charitable works would continue to speak even in death, urging the Ogun State government to immortalise her legacy. Since the news broke, Nigerians have taken to social media to express sorrow, share memories of her generosity, and pray for her soul. Many described her as a rare public figure who lived simply among the people despite her status. Truly, this is a painful exit for a woman many called “our mama.” May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace.

Why Is Tinubu Budgeting ₦6.1 Billion for Foreign Trips in 2026? What Nigeria’s Travel Spending Reveals About Presidential Priorities

A review of Nigeria’s 2026 budget has revealed that President Bola Tinubu plans to spend ₦6.1 billion on foreign travels in the coming fiscal year, raising fresh questions about government priorities amid economic strain. The figure, listed under “State House operations – President,” also shows an additional ₦873 million earmarked for local travel. When combined with the Vice President’s projected foreign travel costs of ₦1.3 billion, total international trip spending by the Presidency in 2026 is expected to reach ₦7.4 billion.

The budget breakdown comes as Nigerians continue to grapple with rising living costs and fiscal pressures. According to the documents, travel expenses remain a major component of State House spending, with another ₦375 million allocated for foodstuffs and catering materials alone. While the Presidency has not released a detailed justification for the travel budget, officials insist the trips are essential for diplomacy, investment, and international engagement.

Recent movements by the President have already drawn public attention. President Tinubu recently departed Lagos for Europe before heading to Abu Dhabi at the invitation of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to attend the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week Summit (ADSW 2026). The Presidency described the summit as a high-level global forum bringing together leaders from government, business, and civil society to discuss sustainable development. Officials also confirmed that the President would return to Nigeria after the event.

However, critics argue that the scale of spending on foreign trips is difficult to justify, especially in light of past expenditure. Although comprehensive 2025 data is unavailable, records from the Open Treasury Portal show that in 2024 alone, the State House spent over ₦36.3 billion on international travel. This included ₦12.2 billion for “international travel and transport (training)” and ₦24.19 billion for “international travel and transport (others).” Local travel was even more costly, with ₦47 billion spent on training and other domestic trips. In total, travel expenses—both local and foreign—amounted to approximately ₦83 billion in 2024.

Further reports revealed that between February and July 2024, the Presidency spent about ₦2.3 billion on foreign trips, while an additional ₦2.9 billion went toward foreign exchange for trips involving the President, Vice President, and First Lady across several countries. Payments running into hundreds of millions of naira were also recorded in individual months, fueling debate over transparency and fiscal discipline.

Opposition figures, including former presidential candidate Peter Obi, have questioned the frequency and cost of the President’s travels. At the same time, government officials have defended the expenditure. Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has argued that the President should even travel more to advance Nigeria’s diplomatic and economic interests globally.

With the 2026 budget now in focus, the key questions remain: Does the ₦6.1 billion allocation reflect necessary diplomacy or excessive spending? How does such expenditure align with Nigeria’s current economic challenges? And will the government provide clearer accountability for the rising cost of presidential travel? As public scrutiny intensifies, the debate over leadership priorities and fiscal responsibility is likely to continue.

First Lady Appreciates RHI Team For Sustained Support

Nigeria's First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu extends heartfelt gratitude to Renewed Hope Initiative team across the country, led by Wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima, First Ladies of States and RHI State Coordinators, Wives of federal legislators,ministers, service Chiefs, and other women leaders across the nation for their support to the initiative since the inception of this administration.

In a personal message to begin the new year, the First Lady applauds their compassion, dedication, and readiness to act, noting that this has strengthened the collective efforts aimed at delivering the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and empowering all Nigerians, especially the most vulnerable, regardless of status or background.

Wishing them a peaceful, productive, impactful and a prosperous 2026, the First Lady again appreciates all their efforts and partnership, while looking forward to continued support in 2026 and beyond.

Paris Court Convicts 10 People for Cyber-Harassing France’s First Lady Brigitte Macron With False Claims She Is Transgender, Hands Down Suspended Jail Sentences

A Paris court has convicted 10 individuals—eight men and two women—for cyber-harassing France’s First Lady, Brigitte Macron, by spreading false claims that she is a transgender woman. French media reported that the defendants received suspended prison sentences of up to eight months for their roles in circulating the allegations online.

The conspiracy theory falsely claimed that Brigitte Macron was born male under the name Jean-Michel Trogneux, which is actually the name of her older brother. The Macrons have faced years of online abuse, also fueled by criticism of their 24-year age difference, but have recently intensified legal action against such attacks.

The ruling comes as President Emmanuel Macron and his wife pursue a separate defamation case in the United States against right-wing podcaster Candace Owens over similar allegations. Speaking to TF1, Brigitte Macron said the harassment had been relentless, including identity tampering on official websites, and stressed that official documents such as birth certificates clearly prove her gender.

She said her legal fight is aimed not only at defending herself but also at setting an example for young people facing online harassment, warning that unchecked cyber abuse can have serious personal and societal consequences.

First Lady's Message on World Braille Day 2026

First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu says Nigeria as a country on a path of sustainable growth must continue to support everyone to live full, independent lives by creating inclusive environments, while strengthening policies and partnerships that empower every citizen to participate confidently in nation-building.

This is in her message marking 2026 World Braille Day.

Celebrating Braille as an important tool of inclusion, dignity, and independence for the blind and visually impaired persons, the First Lady says Braille, when integrated with technology, guarantees equal access to information, education, and opportunities, bridging digital gap and ensuring accessibility in a world that is becoming increasingly digital.

Families of Domestic Workers Detained Since 2019 Over Alleged Patience Jonathan Jewellery Theft Slam Goodluck Jonathan’s New Year Message, Demand Immediate Release or Speedy Trial

Families of domestic workers detained since 2019 over an alleged jewellery theft involving former First Lady, Patience Jonathan, have criticised former President Goodluck Jonathan’s New Year message to Nigerian leaders, describing it as hypocritical and insensitive. The families accused Jonathan of calling for people-centred leadership while remaining silent over the prolonged detention of workers linked to his household, who have been held in custody for more than five years without bail.

Speaking on behalf of the families, a relative of one of the detainees said Jonathan’s appeal for leaders to prioritise citizens’ welfare rang hollow while the accused domestic workers continue to languish in prison amid repeated court delays. The families urged the former president to lead by example by ensuring either the release of the detained workers or the speedy conclusion of their long-running trial.

The families lamented the slow pace of the case, noting that while the detainees are reportedly in good health, the prolonged detention has caused severe emotional and economic hardship. They expressed hope that the case would be concluded early in 2026, stressing that justice delayed continues to punish innocent families.

Their reaction followed Jonathan’s New Year message in which he acknowledged Nigeria’s economic hardship and insecurity, urged leaders to adopt people-oriented governance, and called for leadership anchored on humility, integrity and service to the people.

The controversy has once again drawn attention to the case of 15 domestic workers accused of stealing jewellery allegedly worth hundreds of millions of naira from Mrs. Jonathan’s residence. The defendants, who have been held at the Okaka Correctional Centre in Yenagoa since 2019, have consistently told the court that they were abducted, tortured and forced to make confessions. Some have named security personnel allegedly involved in their abuse, including claims of suspension, whipping and coercion.

Despite repeated allegations of torture and police brutality linked to the case, no security operative has been investigated or charged, further fuelling public criticism and calls for justice, accountability and the release of the detained workers.

First Lady Oluremi Welcomes First Baby Of Year, Assures Of Peaceful 2026

First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has kicked off the New Year with visits to new mothers at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi, where she welcomed the first baby of the year.

First Lady's New Year Message

First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu has called on Nigerians to choose peace, empathy, unity as well as continued investment in the wellbeing of children, women and the vulnerable, as they embrace the new year, 2026.

She made the call in a New Year message, titled "Hope On The Horizon", where she expressed gratitude for the new year, filled with joy, great hope, and an assurance of God’s promises for the nation.

The past year, she says, reaffirms the enduring spirit of Nigerians who showed courage, strength, creativity, and unwavering belief in a better tomorrow, noting that she is deeply inspired by women, men, and young people across the nation who continue to work tirelessly to uplift their families, communities, and the country.

While affirming her belief in Nigeria, the First Lady urges everyone to invest in what the nation can become by creating opportunities that allows every Nigerian to thrive with dignity.

First Lady Provides Update on “Oluremi @65 Education Fund”

As at today, 31st of December, 2025, a total of Twenty Five Billion, Five Hundred and Twenty Million Seven Hundred and Eight Thousand, Seventy Four Naira Thirty Five kobo has been donated to the Oluremi @ 65 Education Fund.

This is contained in a statement by Nigeria's First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu where she appreciates all Nigerians, family, friends, and well-wishers who generously supported the Education Fund, created in commemoration of her 65th birthday towards building the National Library.

She says their support affirms shared commitment to education, preservation of knowledge and national development, adding that she is deeply encouraged by the goodwill and unity the initiative has inspired.

While announcing that the donation account for the Oluremi @65 Education Fund will be shut down today, Wednesday, 31st December, 2025, the First Lady notes that the project is under the supervision of the Honorable Minister of Education, and as such, any further support may be channelled through the Ministry.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya Deeply Mourns Journalists Lost in Tragic Accident

Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has received with overwhelming grief, shock and deep emotional pain the tragic news of the fatal accident involving journalists, staff of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Gombe and Ministry of Information.

The accident occurred along the Billiri-Kumo Road while the victims were returning from the wedding ceremony of their colleague in Kaltungo.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya described the incident as a heart-rending tragedy that has plunged Gombe State into mourning, noting that the loss goes beyond families and institutions to the very soul of the state’s media and public service community.

Those who lost their lives in the unfortunate incident include: Zarah Umar, Manager News and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor in the Office of the First Lady; Manu Haruna Kwami, Manager Administration NTA; Isa Lawan; Musa Tabra, a Retired Manager News; Aminu Adamu, Senior Driver; Adams Danladi of StarTimes; and Judith Kutus, Information Officer with the Gombe State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB).

The Governor said the deceased were committed professionals who dedicated their lives to informing, educating and serving the people, describing their deaths as a devastating blow to journalism, public service and governance in Gombe State.

“This tragedy is deeply painful. We have lost colleagues, partners in progress, and devoted public servants who served with passion and a strong sense of duty. Their absence will be felt for a long time,” the Governor said.

He extended his deepest condolences to the families of the deceased, the leadership and members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, the management and staff of the Nigerian Television Authorityand the entire media fraternity within and beyond Gombe State.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya also expressed grave concern for the injured victims currently receiving medical attention, including Emmanuel Akila (NTA Government House Correspondent), Steven Doddo of NTA Marketing Department, Nina Gadal (Ministry of Information), and Jonathan Bara, Manager, Marketing, NTA, assuring them of the government’s full support.

“Our hearts are with the injured, and we pray earnestly for their speedy and complete recovery. The Government of Gombe State is following the situation closely and will ensure that all necessary assistance is provided,” he said.

“This is a dark moment for Gombe State. We mourn together, we grieve together, and we pray that Almighty God protects us all from such tragic occurrences,” the Governor added.

The Governor prayed Almighty God to grant the departed souls eternal rest and give the bereaved families, colleagues and loved ones the strength to bear the heavy loss.

From Idle Plots to Survival Farms: How Ogun Community Turns Vacant Lands Into Food Security Solutions

Amid Nigeria’s ongoing economic hardships, residents of Iwoye-Aiyedokun in Ogun State have transformed idle lands into small-scale survival farms, producing maize, cassava, plantain, vegetables, and fruits to sustain their families. Families like Rukayat Ogunjimi and Ademola Adedokun grow crops in unused plots near their homes, minimizing food costs and transportation while improving access to fresh produce. The initiative is inspired by backyard gardening campaigns promoted by prominent Nigerians, including Nonye Soludo and First Lady Remi Tinubu, emphasizing subsistence farming as a solution to rising food prices. Local regulations now protect crops from free-ranging livestock, helping maintain farm productivity. The project demonstrates how communities creatively address food security and reduce dependency on commercial markets.

Remi Tinubu Disburses N50 Million to 1,000 Women Entrepreneurs in Ogun State

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi “Remi” Tinubu, distributed N50 million in grants to 1,000 women entrepreneurs in Ogun State under the Renewed Hope Initiative. Each recipient received N50,000 to support their existing small businesses.


Objective: The programme aims to strengthen women’s economic participation, empower small business owners, and improve financial inclusion.

Support and Partnership: The initiative is backed by the Tony Elumelu Foundation, which contributed N1 billion nationwide to support approximately 18,500 women across Nigeria.

Event Details: The grant presentation took place at the June 12 Cultural Centre in Kuto, Abeokuta, and Mrs. Tinubu was represented by Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, wife of the Ogun State Governor.

Grant Nature: Beneficiaries were informed that the funds are grants, not loans, and are not required to be repaid.

Governor’s Role: Governor Dapo Abiodun increased Ogun State’s allocation to 1,000 beneficiaries, demonstrating commitment to women’s empowerment.

Call to Beneficiaries: Mrs. Tinubu urged recipients to use the grants responsibly to grow their businesses, improve livelihoods, and contribute to national development.

Broader Context: Access to finance remains a significant challenge for Nigerian women, making initiatives like the Renewed Hope Initiative crucial for economic inclusion.


The programme is part of ongoing efforts by the First Lady and the Tony Elumelu Foundation to foster entrepreneurship, reduce financial barriers, and promote sustainable development among women across Nigeria.

US Government Releases President Donald Trump and Melania Trump’s Official White House Christmas Portrait as Festive Decorations Return Under “Home Is Where the Heart Is” Theme

The United States government has officially released President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump’s 2025 White House Christmas portrait, taken in the Cross Hall of the historic residence. The portrait shows the president in a classic black tuxedo and the first lady in an elegant black dress, reflecting a refined holiday style. Alongside the release, the White House unveiled its Christmas decorations themed “Home Is Where the Heart Is,” featuring 51 Christmas trees, 75 wreaths, thousands of lights, ribbons, ornaments, and elaborate festive displays. Public Christmas tours resumed on December 2, allowing visitors to experience the seasonal decorations and holiday atmosphere inside the White House, as the Trumps shared a message highlighting faith, family, freedom, and national unity during the Christmas season.

#DonaldTrump
#WhiteHouseChristmas
#MelaniaTrump

Aisha Buhari Reveals Pneumonia as Cause of Late President Buhari’s Death in New Book"

Former First Lady, Aisha Buhari, has disclosed in her newly released book From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari that pneumonia was the immediate cause of her late husband’s death. She dismissed conspiracy theories suggesting poisoning or sabotage, stating that medical professionals clearly informed the family. Aisha Buhari also linked Buhari’s earlier health challenges to exhaustion and dietary imbalance. The book further reflects on governance challenges during his presidency, the DSS controversy, and her post-presidential humanitarian initiatives, including a cardiovascular and medical centre in Kano.

#AishaBuhari #MuhammaduBuhari #BuhariDeath #Pneumonia #NigeriaPolitics #NigerianPresidency #Governance

Seyi Tinubu Spotted With Alaafin of Oyo Ahead of Installation as “Okanlomo of Yorubaland” as Videos From Venue Spark Reactions

Videos showing President Bola Tinubu’s son, Seyi Tinubu, in the company of the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, have surfaced on social media ahead of his installation as the “Okanlomo of Yorubaland” in Oyo State. The clips, recorded at the installation venue in Oyo town, captured moments of conversation between Seyi and the monarch amid singing, cheers, and preparations for the ceremony scheduled for Sunday, December 21, 2025. Reports also confirm that former Zamfara State governor and APC senator, Abdul’Aziz Yari, will be installed as the Obaloyin of Yorubaland at the same event. The development has generated mixed reactions online, with some Nigerians questioning the growing politicisation of traditional titles, while others congratulated Seyi Tinubu. The installation comes weeks after the Ooni of Ife conferred the chieftaincy title of Yeye Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile-Oodua on First Lady Remi Tinubu.

NIGERIA LAUNCHES 3RD NATIONAL ACTION PLAN ON PEACE & SECURITY

Nigeria has taken a bold step in advancing women’s inclusion in peace and security with the launch of its Third National Action Plan on UN Security Council Resolution 1325.

The plan reaffirms the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting women and girls, while positioning women as key drivers of conflict prevention and peacebuilding.

Speaking at the launch, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, represented by Laila Barau, wife of the Deputy Senate President, said the initiative marks a new chapter toward a safer, more inclusive nation where women and girls can thrive.

Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, described the plan as a historic milestone that places women, children and vulnerable groups at the heart of national stability, calling for collective action to ensure its success.

The event also featured the inauguration of a National Technical Working Committee to drive implementation and localise the plan across the 36 states and the FCT.

Aisha Buhari Reveals Why Late President Buhari Locked His Room, Debunks Poison Rumours

Former First Lady Aisha Buhari disclosed that her late husband, President Muhammadu Buhari, began locking his room after hearing false rumours that she was plotting to kill him. Speaking in the 600-page biography From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari by Dr. Charles Omole, she clarified that Buhari’s 2017 health challenges were due to disrupted nutrition and missed meals, not mysterious illness or poisoning.

Aisha Buhari explained that she had meticulously managed the former president’s meals and supplements for years, a routine that was disrupted after misinformation circulated within Aso Rock. The disruption led to delayed meals and missed supplements, culminating in Buhari’s 154-day medical leave in the UK, where he received specialised care including blood transfusions.

She refuted conspiracy theories, including claims of a body double, emphasizing that poor communication allowed minor events to spiral into rumours. The biography also highlights the climate of mistrust and surveillance within the presidency, showing how fear and misinformation affected Buhari’s health and personal life.

Obasanjo Returns to Aso Rock for Christmas Carols as Tinubu Is Absent

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo made his first visit to Aso Rock since Bola Tinubu assumed office, attending the 2025 Service of Nine Lessons and Carols hosted by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu. The visit comes amid Obasanjo’s strong criticism of Tinubu’s administration over worsening insecurity, while President Tinubu was notably absent from the religious event.

#Obasanjo #AsoRock #Tinubu #NigeriaPolitics

Obasanjo Attends Aso Rock Christmas Carols as Tinubu Skips Event Amid Rising Insecurity

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo attended the 2025 Service of Nine Lessons and Carols at Aso Rock, hosted by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, marking his first visit to the Presidential Villa since President Bola Tinubu assumed office. Obasanjo read a biblical passage during the service, while President Tinubu was absent, reportedly due to the religious nature of the event. The former president has recently criticized the Tinubu administration over escalating insecurity, including killings, kidnappings, and the government’s reliance on negotiations instead of decisive action against terrorists, highlighting Nigeria’s advanced drone capabilities.

#Obasanjo

#Tinubu

#NigeriaSecurity

Remi Tinubu Breaks Silence, Says Nigerians Shouldn’t Amplify ‘Minor Missteps’ After Clash With Gov Adeleke

Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has responded to public backlash over her confrontation with Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke during the Ooni of Ife’s 10th coronation anniversary. In a viral moment, she approached the governor on stage and warned him to stop singing or she would turn off his microphone. Facing widespread criticism, Remi Tinubu posted a photo with Adeleke on Facebook, urging Nigerians not to amplify “minor missteps” or create unnecessary controversy. Social media users, however, continue to condemn her actions as disrespectful and a national embarrassment. The Osun State government has not yet commented on the incident.