By Matthew Johnson

President Bola Tinubu has lost one of his most devoted elderly supporters, Alhaja Shafaw Ayinla Alanamu, a 98-year-old woman whose unwavering faith in the President’s leadership earned national attention during the build-up to the 2023 general elections.

Alhaja Shafaw Ayinla Alanamu, a native of Ilorin in Kwara State, passed away a few days ago.

Until her death, the nonagenarian was said to have remained hopeful about the President’s continued success in office and had looked forward to witnessing his political journey beyond the current electoral cycle.

The late matriarch rose to national prominence in 2023 when videos of her offering passionate prayers for Tinubu’s electoral victory went viral across social media platforms.

Her open endorsement and spiritual support resonated with many Nigerians, portraying a picture of grassroots loyalty that transcended age and physical limitations.

Despite the burden of old age, Alhaja Alanamu defied health and travel challenges to journey to Abuja during the presidential campaign period. At the invitation of Seyi Tinubu, son of the President, she visited the Federal Capital Territory, where she had the rare privilege of meeting the then presidential candidate.

The encounter became one of the memorable human-interest moments of the campaign season, symbolising the emotional bond between Tinubu and sections of his supporters.

In one of the widely circulated videos from the visit, Tinubu was seen praying for the elderly woman in appreciation of her support, a gesture that further amplified public interest in her story.

Before her passing, Alhaja Alanamu had openly expressed confidence in Tinubu’s leadership, describing him as “not a destroyer of the nation but a builder,” adding that she believed his presidency would bring relief and renewed hope to Nigerians.

Beyond her moment in the national spotlight, family members and associates described her as a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and respected community elder whose life was defined by prayer, humility and goodwill toward others. Her longevity and steadfast faith, they noted, served as a source of inspiration to many within and outside her community.

She is survived by children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and numerous admirers touched by her wisdom and kindness.

Her Janazah prayer is scheduled to be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at the family residence located at Balogun Alanamu Compound, Ilorin, Kwara State, by 9:30 a.m.