The First Lady, Remi Tinubu, has invited members of the Nigerian Senate, including Senate Leader Godswill Akpabio, to a dinner at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa this Friday. The invitation, described as an “interactive session,” aims to foster discussions on national progress and collaboration between the Presidency and the legislature.
Announcing the invite during Tuesday’s plenary session, Akpabio likened the dinner to “a mother inviting her children” to share a meal and engage in meaningful dialogue. The First Lady’s office indicated that the session would provide an opportunity for senators and government officials to exchange ideas and address pressing national issues.
However, the timing of the dinner has drawn criticism from citizens and observers, who argue that it comes amid national grief and insecurity. Nigeria is currently grappling with multiple crises, including the recent abduction of over 200 pupils from a Catholic school in Niger State, as well as rising incidents of banditry and kidnappings across several states. Critics argue that hosting a lavish dinner while citizens face life-threatening challenges may be perceived as insensitive and tone-deaf.
Supporters of the initiative suggest that the dinner could serve as a platform for concrete policy discussions, particularly on security and education, if the session results in actionable outcomes. Nonetheless, public reactions remain divided, with many questioning the optics of political leaders dining comfortably while the nation mourns and faces persistent insecurity.
The First Lady and her office have not indicated whether security concerns will feature prominently in the dinner discussions.
