First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Thursday called for national unity, service and collective purpose as she received an award at the Leadership Annual Conference and Awards 2025 in Abuja.
In a speech that combined gratitude with a strong appeal for cohesion across political, cultural and religious divides, Mrs. Tinubu said Nigeria’s progress depends on its ability to remain united amid growing global and domestic challenges.
“The future of our nation depends on our willingness to work together across cultural and religious differences for the good of all. For a house divided against itself cannot stand,” she said.
The First Lady, who was honoured by the Leadership Newspaper board at the beginning of the year, described the award as a shared recognition rather than a personal achievement.
“I do not take this honour alone,” she told a gathering that included former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan; Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Dr. Amina Mohammed; governors; lawmakers; traditional rulers; and senior government officials.
“This award is for all those who have helped me along the way, especially women, young people and community leaders who work tirelessly every day to uplift others and ignite hope in our nation,” she added.
Mrs. Tinubu commended the Chairman of Leadership Newspaper, Mrs. Zainab Nda-Isaiah, for sustaining and expanding the vision of the organisation’s late founding chairman, Mr. Sam Nda-Isaiah.
“I believe that looking down today, he would be proud of you for keeping the fire of this organisation burning,” she said, praising the newspaper’s commitment to journalism that informs, inspires and strengthens democracy.
She also acknowledged the presence of governors from Imo, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Yobe and Zamfara states, as well as other senior federal officials and traditional rulers.
The First Lady reserved special praise for the UN Deputy Secretary-General, Dr. Amina Mohammed, describing her keynote address as timely and insightful.
“Your reflections offered practical guidance and clarity on the choices we are called upon to make as a nation,” Mrs. Tinubu said, commending her lifelong commitment to Africa’s development.
Describing her attendance as personally significant, Mrs. Tinubu said the occasion provided an opportunity to honour outstanding individuals and express appreciation at the start of the year.
She dedicated the award to Nigerians who continue to believe in compassion, selflessness and service.
“I dedicate this award to every citizen who believes that selflessness and humaneness can truly change lives,” she said, urging Nigerians to work together to build the country of their aspirations.
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