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What You Should Know About the First Lady of Nigeria
When Oluremi Tinubu became Nigeria’s First Lady on May 29, 2023, she stepped into a role that, while not defined by the constitution, has always carried influence. The office of the First Lady is symbolic yet powerful, shaping national conversations, driving social projects, and giving a human face to the presidency. For Remi Tinubu, it’s another chapter in a long public life shaped by politics, faith, and advocacy.
Her Early Life
Born on September 21, 1960, in Ogun State, Oluremi Tinubu is the youngest of twelve children. Her heritage blends Yoruba and Itsekiri roots, giving her an early sense of Nigeria’s cultural breadth. She studied Education at the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) and later became a pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church of God , an identity she still carries with pride.
From Lagos to Abuja
Remi Tinubu first stepped into public office in 1999 as First Lady of Lagos State when her husband, Bola Tinubu, was elected governor. During that time, she launched programmes to support women and young people, establishing a reputation for social advocacy.
In 2011, she moved into active politics, winning a seat in the Senate to represent Lagos Central. She served three terms, focusing on issues like youth empowerment, women’s rights, and education, before leaving in 2023 to assume her role as Nigeria’s First Lady.
The Renewed Hope Initiative
As First Lady, Remi Tinubu runs the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), a nationwide platform that focuses on:
- Women’s Empowerment: Small business grants and training for thousands of women.
- Youth Development: Scholarships and mentorship opportunities.
- Environment: Campaigns like the Green Nigeria Challenge to promote tree planting and sustainable living.
- Welfare: Food and relief packages for families hardest hit by inflation and poverty.
Through RHI, she also collaborates with the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), broadening her advocacy across the continent.
Recognition and Symbolism
Traditional leaders and communities have also recognized her efforts. Recently, she was honored with the chieftaincy title “Ugosimba I Enugu” by the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council. Such recognition underscores her reach beyond politics and her symbolic role in uniting communities across Nigeria.
Criticism and Challenges
Like her predecessors, Remi Tinubu’s role has not escaped criticism. The First Lady’s office lacks constitutional structure, which raises questions about accountability and funding. Critics also argue that while her programmes are ambitious, their long-term sustainability remains to be proven. Still, her presence in public life and her ability to mobilize support keep her at the center of national conversations.
Why It Matters
The First Lady’s role in Nigeria has always been more than ceremonial. From Maryam Babangida’s Better Life for Rural Women to Aisha Buhari’s advocacy for women and children, each First Lady leaves a mark. For Remi Tinubu, the challenge, and opportunity, lies in turning her Renewed Hope Initiative into lasting impact for millions of Nigerians navigating hardship.
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Afrobeats superstar David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has revealed that he considered stepping away from music before the release of his smash hit “With You” featuring Omah Lay.
In a recent interview making rounds on social media, the 14-year music veteran admitted he was on the verge of bowing out of the industry until the unexpected success of the record reignited his drive.
“We thank God. Thirteen or 14 years after, for me to have this kind of song… people have this kind of hit at the beginning or middle of their career. Me, that was even getting ready to bow out, then God gave me this kind of song. He definitely added more life to it,” Davido said.
The track, which appears on his latest 5ive album, has gone on to become the most streamed Nigerian song of 2025 on Spotify. It also bagged a nomination for “Song of the Year” at the 2025 AFRIMA Awards, topped the Official Nigeria Top 100, and broke into the top 5 Afrobeats songs on Billboard US.
The success of With You marks yet another career-defining moment for Davido, whose consistency and longevity continue to cement his place among Afrobeats’ global heavyweights.
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Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, better known as Ayra Starr, has officially crossed 3 billion streams across all credits on Spotify, marking a new milestone in her fast-rising career.
At just 22, Ayra Starr has carved her place among Afrobeats’ global heavyweights, joining the ranks of Wizkid, Burna Boy, Davido, Rema, and Tems who have each surpassed the multi-billion streaming benchmark.
The achievement underscores her meteoric rise in a relatively short span, with hit singles like Rush, Bloody Samaritan, and Commas driving her international reach. Her consistency and global presence have made her one of the leading female voices in the genre.
Ayra Starr’s growth comes as Afrobeats continues to gain ground worldwide. Wizkid currently leads the continent with over 9 billion streams, Burna Boy follows with 8.5 billion, while Rema’s global hit Calm Down pushed him past 3 billion. Tems broke barriers as the first Nigerian female artist to cross the mark, with Davido maintaining his stronghold in the streaming era.
For Ayra Starr, this milestone is only the beginning. With a growing international fanbase and a string of collaborations under her belt, the “Sabi Girl” looks poised to push Afrobeats even further onto the global stage.
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Nigeria’s gospel music industry is one of the most vibrant in the world, producing voices that inspire, uplift, and cross cultural and international borders. From timeless worship leaders to new-generation voices redefining sound, here are 15 of the most talented Nigerian gospel musicians making history today.
1. Sinach
Osinachi Kalu Okoro Egbu, popularly known as Sinach, is one of Africa’s biggest gospel exports. Her global hit “Way Maker” has been translated into multiple languages and sung in churches across continents. With over three decades of ministry, Sinach remains a pioneer in contemporary gospel worship.
2. Nathaniel Bassey
Few artists have impacted modern Nigerian worship like Nathaniel Bassey. Famous for his trumpet and spiritual depth, Bassey’s songs like “Imela” and “Olowogbogboro” have become staples in churches. His digital movement, The Hallelujah Challenge, connects millions in worship globally.
3. Mercy Chinwo
With a powerful voice and passionate delivery, Mercy Chinwo has become one of the most loved gospel stars of her generation. From “Excess Love” to “Obinasom”, her songs are both worship tools and inspirational anthems.
4. Moses Bliss
One of the fastest-rising names in gospel, Moses Bliss has touched lives with songs like “Too Faithful”. He also leads Spotlite Nation, a platform nurturing the next generation of gospel artists.
5. Dunsin Oyekan
Nicknamed The Eagle, Dunsin Oyekan is known for prophetic worship sessions that carry intensity and power. With songs like “Fragrance to Fire” and “The Anthem”, he has built a reputation as one of the most anointed voices in African gospel.
6. Tim Godfrey
A dynamic performer and creative force, Tim Godfrey is famous for blending urban gospel with worship. His hit “Nara”, a collaboration with Travis Greene, remains one of the most impactful Nigerian gospel songs of recent years.
7. Ada Ehi
With her vibrant style and youthful energy, Ada Ehi infuses pop and Afrobeat elements into gospel. Songs like “Only You Jesus” and “Cheta” have made her a household name across Africa.
8. Tope Alabi
Tope Alabi is a legend in Yoruba gospel music, celebrated for her lyrical depth and ability to combine traditional sounds with contemporary gospel. Her songs have influenced worshippers for decades and remain evergreen.
9. Frank Edwards
A multi-talented singer, songwriter, and producer, Frank Edwards is one of the most versatile Nigerian gospel musicians. His blend of Afrobeat and worship has made him stand out globally, with hits like “You Too Dey Bless Me”.
10. Judikay
Signed under Eezee Conceptz, Judikay has become a strong female voice in worship music. Her soulful songs like “More Than Gold” and “Capable God” are widely loved in churches across Nigeria.
11. Chioma Jesus
Known for her high-energy praise songs, Chioma Jesus (Amaka Okwuoha) has been an influential figure in Igbo gospel. Her ability to connect with grassroots audiences makes her unique.
12. Ebuka Songs
One of the new faces of Nigerian gospel, Ebuka Songs has quickly risen with heartfelt worship anthems that resonate with young believers. His sound is fresh, and his influence is growing fast.
13. Yinka Ayefele
A household name in Nigeria, Yinka Ayefele is celebrated for his gospel juju style. Despite a tragic accident that left him wheelchair-bound, his resilience and music have inspired millions.
14. Lawrence Oyor
Lawrence Oyor is known for his deep, soul-stirring chants and worship songs that connect with listeners seeking intimacy with God. His music is widely used in prayer and revival meetings.
15. Sunmisola Agbebi
A rising star, Sunmisola Agbebi represents the new generation of gospel artists. With her unique voice and songs like “Koseunti”, she is carving a strong space for herself in the gospel scene.
Why This Matters
Nigeria’s gospel industry is more than just music, it is a movement of faith, culture, and creativity. These artists are not only entertaining but also leading spiritual revivals through their sound. Their talent continues to push Nigerian gospel music onto global stages, proving that worship truly has no borders.
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