“Peace in Abundance, Prosperity in Abundance”: Remi Tinubu Opens 2026 With Message of Hope to Nigerians

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, ushered in the new year with a message of optimism and reassurance, declaring 2026 a year of peace and prosperity for the nation as she paid a symbolic New Year visit to new mothers at the Federal Medical Centre, Jabi, Abuja. The visit, which took place in the early hours of January 1, blended tradition, faith, and national sentiment, setting a hopeful tone at a time when many Nigerians are yearning for stability, economic relief, and renewed confidence in the future.

Arriving at the hospital alongside the wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima; the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulieman-Ibrahim; and the Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Hajia Mariya Mahmoud, the First Lady was warmly received by medical staff, families, and well-wishers. The annual visit, which has become a familiar New Year ritual for Nigeria’s First Ladies, was once again used as a moment to reflect on national values, resilience, and the significance of new beginnings.

At the centre of the visit was the celebration of the “First Baby of the Year,” a baby girl born exactly at midnight to 26-year-old Adakole Patience, a first-time mother. Senator Tinubu personally welcomed the newborn, offering prayers, gifts, and words of encouragement to the young mother. The moment, filled with emotion and symbolism, was presented as a sign of hope for the country as it steps into a new calendar year.

The First Lady also visited another family whose story captured national attention and stirred emotions among those present. Blessing Oragwu, who had waited 13 years after marriage to conceive, gave birth to triplets—two boys and a girl. Senator Tinubu described the birth as “wonderful,” celebrating the perseverance and faith of the mother and presenting gifts to support the family. She also acknowledged another baby boy born at the facility, reinforcing her message that every new life is a reminder of hope and continuity.

Speaking to journalists after the visit, Senator Tinubu reflected on the significance of the births and what they represent for Nigeria. She expressed gratitude for Nigerians who made it safely into the new year, noting that survival itself is a blessing amid the country’s ongoing social and economic challenges. Drawing from Yoruba cultural wisdom, she shared a proverb that added a deeply symbolic layer to her message. According to her, in Yoruba land, the birth of girls is often associated with ease and grace, a belief she linked to her optimism for the year ahead.

“In Yoruba land, they say when you have girls, they come with ease,” she said. “So we believe this year is going to be a great year for us as a nation, peace in abundance, prosperity in abundance.” The statement, though cultural in origin, resonated beyond tradition, quickly spreading across social media and news platforms as a hopeful declaration for 2026.

The First Lady’s message extended beyond symbolism to practical encouragement, particularly for Nigerian women. She praised Nigerian women as blessed and hardworking, urging them not to be discouraged by present difficulties. According to her, faith, persistence, and courage remain essential tools for personal and national progress. She encouraged women to pursue opportunities they believe God has placed in their hearts, no matter how small the starting point may seem.

“Whatever they feel God has laid in their hearts, they should pursue it,” she said. “Start small, and you will be amazed.” Her words echoed themes of entrepreneurship, self-belief, and gradual growth, which have become increasingly relevant as more Nigerians turn to small businesses and informal ventures to survive economic pressures.

Senator Tinubu also placed strong emphasis on generosity and intentional giving, describing 2026 as a “year of generosity.” In her view, prosperity is not only about accumulation but also about compassion and shared responsibility. She encouraged Nigerians seeking financial breakthrough to extend kindness to the less privileged, stressing that giving should be purposeful and heartfelt.

“This year, if you want money, you have to sow into the lives of the less privileged,” she said. “Be generous; it is a year of generosity.” The message, rooted in faith and social responsibility, aligned with her long-standing advocacy for women, children, and vulnerable groups across the country.

The visit to FMC Jabi also highlighted the role of healthcare workers who often spend festive periods on duty. Senator Tinubu commended doctors, nurses, and support staff for their dedication, acknowledging the sacrifices they make to ensure safe deliveries and quality care, even during celebrations. Hospital officials, in turn, expressed appreciation for the visit, describing it as a morale booster for both staff and patients.

Observers note that the First Lady’s New Year message comes at a crucial time for Nigeria. As the country navigates economic reforms, rising living costs, and ongoing security concerns, statements of hope from national leaders often carry significant emotional weight. While such declarations are largely symbolic, they also reflect the administration’s desire to project confidence and reassurance to the public.

Across social media platforms, reactions to Senator Tinubu’s visit and remarks were mixed but largely reflective of the nation’s mood. Many Nigerians welcomed the message of peace and prosperity, sharing images and clips from the hospital visit alongside prayers and expressions of hope. Others urged leaders to translate optimistic words into tangible improvements in security, healthcare, and the economy. Still, for many, the sight of newborns and grateful mothers on the first day of the year offered a rare moment of collective warmth.

As 2026 begins, the image of the First Lady cradling newborns and speaking of abundance has become one of the year’s earliest defining moments. Whether viewed as tradition, symbolism, or faith-driven optimism, the message was clear: the new year represents another chance for healing, growth, and national renewal.

For families like that of Adakole Patience and Blessing Oragwu, the year has already begun with joy that words can hardly capture. For millions of Nigerians watching from afar, Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s assurance stands as a hopeful prayer for a nation eager to experience the peace and prosperity she promised.