The Youth Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN) has dismissed claims that the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses donated by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu were politically motivated ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The clarification followed speculations that the gesture was part of a strategic move to curry favour among Christian youth groups in the build-up to future elections.
In a statement signed by YOWICAN National Chairman, Ambassador Belusochukwu Enwere, the group stated that the donation of seven hybrid CNG buses was aimed at promoting evangelism, youth mobility, and social outreach programmes across the federation — not politics.
“We want to clearly state that the buses gifted to us by the First Lady were for administrative and evangelical purposes. It is untrue that they were given to influence our organisation politically or for any 2027-related motive,” Enwere said.
He expressed appreciation to Senator Oluremi Tinubu for her commitment to youth empowerment and for recognising the importance of transportation in supporting nationwide Christian activities.
“These buses will be deployed to strengthen our outreach missions, ease travel logistics for church programmes, and aid in humanitarian work across Nigeria,” he added.
Enwere urged critics to separate religion from politics, noting that the First Lady had a long record of supporting faith-based initiatives and community projects even before her husband’s presidency.
The donation, which took place under the Renewed Hope Initiative — an empowerment scheme launched by the First Lady — included buses for select youth and women groups to enhance mobility and social engagement efforts.
He further called on Nigerians to support government programmes that promote national unity and human capacity development.
“As young Christians, our focus remains on national transformation through responsible leadership, service, and faith-based engagement — not partisan politics,” he concluded.
The clarification comes amid broader public debate over the intersection of politics, religion, and philanthropy in Nigeria’s evolving democratic landscape.
Sources: Vanguard, The Nation, Channels TV
