Fresh questions are emerging over the funding of billions of naira in donations made by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu through the Renewed Hope Initiative over the past three years.
Reports indicated the initiative has announced or facilitated more than ₦15 billion in cash donations between July 2023 and July 2026, supporting healthcare, education, agriculture, disaster relief and women empowerment.
The initiative also spearheaded fundraising efforts that reportedly generated over N25 billion in 2025 for the completion of the National Library project in Abuja.
Public attention has intensified because the Office of the First Lady has no constitutional recognition or statutory budget, prompting renewed debate over the funding and oversight of its activities.
Responding to the concerns, the First Lady has consistently maintained that the funds are not sourced from government, attributing them to private donations, fundraising efforts and supporters of the initiative.
Her media aide, Busola Kukoyi, said the Renewed Hope Initiative is managed by a governing board comprising reputable Nigerians and supported by individuals and corporate organisations committed to its humanitarian objectives.
Governance experts and civil society organisations have, however, called for greater transparency in the sourcing, management and disbursement of the funds to strengthen public confidence and accountability.
Public affairs analyst Jide Ojo and CISLAC Executive Director Auwal Musa Rafsanjani urged authorities to establish a legal framework for the Office of the First Lady to ensure effective oversight and public reporting.
Other analysts acknowledged the humanitarian impact of the interventions but insisted that Nigerians deserve clear information on how the funds are raised and managed in line with transparency and responsible governance.
