First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu has called for national unity and collective purpose on Thursday, warning that “a house divided against itself cannot stand”.
The First Lady stated this as she accepted an honour at the Leadership Annual Conference and Awards 2025 in Abuja.
Speaking before an audience of high-ranking officials and former heads of state, the First Lady dedicated her award to the women, youth, and community leaders of Nigeria, urging the nation to bridge cultural and religious divides to ensure a stable and prosperous future.
“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.
Remi 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.
