Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has taken a swipe at critics of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, suggesting that those who fail to recognise the government’s achievements may need special glasses to see the progress she says is taking place.

Mrs Tinubu made the remarks on Friday, October 23, 2026, in Abuja, while inaugurating the headquarters of the PBAT Door-to-Door Movement, a political mobilisation group working to secure her husband’s re-election in 2027.

Speaking at the event, the First Lady argued that developments were taking place under the current administration, despite criticism from Nigerians who remain dissatisfied with the country’s situation.

“So things are happening in Nigeria, except, you know, those who don’t see; maybe we’ll give them some, you know, Bola Tinubu eyeglasses. We are doing that, JigiBola,” she said.

The remark appeared to be directed at Nigerians who have questioned the administration’s performance amid continuing concerns over economic hardship and the impact of government policies on households.

Mrs Tinubu also expressed confidence about leaving the Presidential Villa in 2031, when her husband would complete a second four-year term if he wins re-election in 2027.

“I want to leave Aso Rock, in 2031, by the grace of God, and enter a Nigeria that me as a 70-something-year-old woman will enjoy,” she said.

She pointed to changes at Nigerian airports as one example of the progress she believes is being recorded, saying she hoped to enjoy faster and more convenient travel.

“I want to get to the airport. I want to travel, you know, so quickly. And you can see our airports too are changing,” she added.

The First Lady subsequently commissioned the movement’s Abuja headquarters and declared support for President Tinubu’s anticipated victory in the 2027 presidential election.

The group is expected to coordinate grassroots mobilisation and promote the administration’s policies and the Renewed Hope Agenda as political activities intensify ahead of the election.

President Tinubu assumed office in May 2023 and would complete his first four-year term in 2027. A second term, if secured, would run until 2031.

Mrs Tinubu’s comments come amid ongoing debate over the administration’s economic reforms, rising living costs and the extent to which Nigerians are experiencing improvements in their daily lives. While supporters point to government initiatives and infrastructure projects as evidence of progress, critics continue to raise concerns about the cost of living and the pressures facing households.

Her remarks have added to the political conversation ahead of the 2027 election, as the ruling All Progressives Congress and opposition parties prepare to seek public support for their respective positions.W