Jay Boss
Former First Lady of Nigeria, Dame Patience Jonathan, has pledged her unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections. Speaking in Abuja on Saturday night, she emphasized her belief in rotational leadership and affirmed her close relationship with the current First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
Mrs. Jonathan made these remarks while receiving the Women Icon Leader of the Year 2025 award from Accolade Dynamics Limited. During her speech, she acknowledged the presence of Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, daughter of President Tinubu and the Iyaloja-General of Nigeria.
“Iyaloja, thank you for standing with women—these are your women,” she said. “All the way, we are with you. No shaking. We will follow. Direct us, and we will follow.”
She stressed the importance of supporting the incumbent president, saying:
“I believe in one president at a time. I’m outspoken—if I like something, I support it wholeheartedly. I believe in turn-by-turn leadership. When it’s your turn, I’ll stand by you. When it’s not, step aside so Nigeria can move forward.”
Mrs. Jonathan reflected on her longstanding friendship with Senator Remi Tinubu, which began long before either woman became First Lady. She recalled their shared efforts during her husband’s political journey, including the 2011 presidential campaign.
“I’ve known Remi long before Aso Rock. We worked together when I was the deputy governor’s wife, then governor’s wife. Even when Goodluck was Vice President, Remi and her husband supported us,” she recalled. “I have a conscience—I can’t abandon a friend.”
She made it clear she has no interest in returning to political office, stating:
“I’m not going back to the Villa. I’m not running for anything. I told my friend I’d campaign with her. That’s where I stand.”
The former First Lady also voiced strong support for the 35% affirmative action for women in governance, lamenting the consistent rejection of gender equality bills by the National Assembly.
“We’re not trying to take power from men; we’re trying to support them. We are mothers, sisters, and friends,” she said.
In accepting her award, she credited the recognition to the collective efforts of those championing women’s health and economic empowerment.
“This honour is not just mine but belongs to all who have joined me in promoting women’s welfare in Nigeria and beyond,” she said.
She also highlighted the achievements of her NGOs—Aurora Richard Foundation and Women for Change and Development Initiative—which have empowered thousands through skills training and medical support initiatives.
“I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished—many women now have skills, and several children have had life-saving surgeries abroad,” she added.
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