Balikis Oluremi "Remi" Tinubu stands as one of Nigeria's most prominent political figures, currently serving as the First Lady of Nigeria since her husband Bola Tinubu assumed the presidency in 2023. Her journey from state first lady to national prominence represents a remarkable story of dedication and public service.
Early Life and Background
Remi Tinubu was born on 21 September 1960 in Ogun State, Nigeria, making her 64 years old as of November 2025. Her zodiac sign is Virgo, reflecting the determined and practical nature that has characterized her public life.
She hails from the distinguished Ikusebiala family of Ogun State, with her father Chief John Ikusebiala being Yoruba from Ogun State and her mother being Itsekiri from Delta State. Growing up in a large family, Remi was the 12th of 13 children, learning early the values of family and community that would later define her political career.
Educational Journey and Religious Calling
Remi Tinubu's educational path began at Our Lady of Apostles Secondary School in Ijebu-Ode, where she obtained her West African Senior Secondary School Certificate Exam in 1979. Her pursuit of higher education led her to Adeyemi College of Education for a National Certificate of Education in Botany and Zoology.
She further advanced her education at the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), earning a B.S. in Education. Her spiritual development continued through The Redeemed Christian Bible College, where she graduated with a Postgraduate Diploma in 2010 and became an ordained pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God.
Political Career and Achievements
Remi Tinubu's political journey began when she served as the First Lady of Lagos State from 1999 to 2007 during her husband's tenure as governor. During this period, she focused on education, health, and women's empowerment, establishing both the New Era Foundation and the Yeye Asiwaju Foundation to support women and children in need.
Her political career reached new heights when she was elected to represent the Lagos Central Senatorial District in the Nigerian National Assembly from 2011 to 2023. As a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), she served on important Senate Committees including Health and Women's Affairs.
In June 2019, Remi Tinubu achieved a historic milestone when she was inducted into the Nigerian Women's Hall of Fame for being the first female senator elected to serve three consecutive terms. She acknowledged this honor on her X (Twitter) account, expressing gratitude to her constituents for their continued support.
Family Life and Personal Details
Remi Tinubu has been married to President Bola Tinubu since 1987, marking nearly four decades of marriage. The couple has built a blended family that includes Remi's three biological children - Zainab Abisola, Habibat, and Olayinka - along with her husband's three children from previous relationships: Olajide (deceased), Folashade, and Oluwaseyi.
Interestingly, while Remi Tinubu practices Christianity as an ordained pastor, her husband follows the Islamic faith, demonstrating the religious diversity within their family unit. Some of their children have followed in their parents' footsteps by venturing into politics.
Beyond her political work, Remi Tinubu has established herself as an author, having written several books including her autobiography The Journey of Mery, My FaithWalk. She currently resides in the Aso Villa in Abuja with her husband, fulfilling her duties as Nigeria's First Lady while continuing her advocacy work for women and children across the nation.
