First Lady Urges Unity, Peace As Nigeria Marks 66th Independence

Amarachi Ihesiulo

October 2, 2026
3 min read
First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has called on Nigerians to preserve peace, unity and tolerance as the country marks its 66th Independence anniversary, describing the nation as resilient despite the challenges it has faced since gaining independence in 1960.

Mrs Tinubu made the call in her Independence Day message to Nigerians on Thursday, urging citizens to reject violence and actions capable of deepening divisions across the country.

She said Nigeria’s 66-year journey had been defined by resilience, change and efforts to build a stronger and more prosperous nation.

“As Nigeria marks 66 years of independence, we celebrate the remarkable journey of a resilient nation and honour the sacrifices of those who laid the foundation for our freedom,” she said.

The First Lady noted that Nigeria had overcome various challenges since independence while continuing to pursue national development.

She identified the country’s diversity as one of its major strengths and urged citizens to protect it through peaceful coexistence, tolerance, dialogue and patriotism.

“Our diversity remains one of our greatest assets; we must continue to nurture it through peace, tolerance, dialogue, unity, and love for country,” she said.

Mrs Tinubu encouraged Nigerians to choose unity over division and hope over despair as they work towards building the country they desire.

She also offered prayers for Nigeria, asking God to protect citizens, strengthen national unity, guide the country’s leaders and grant the nation peace, prosperity and progress.

“Happy 66th Independence Anniversary, Nigeria!” she said.

The First Lady also used the occasion to recognise older persons in Nigeria as the world marked the 36th anniversary of the International Day of Older Persons.

The 2026 observance has the theme, “The Age of Longevity: Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives.”

Mrs Tinubu said the theme highlights the need for societies to rethink systems and policies to ensure that older people remain healthy, productive and able to live with dignity.

She described senior citizens as custodians of valuable knowledge and experience, stressing that they should not be abandoned or excluded from family and community life.

“Senior citizens are custodians of invaluable wisdom and experience. They must never be abandoned, ignored, or excluded,” she said.

The First Lady called on families and communities to continue caring for older persons, value their advice and learn from their experiences.

She also urged stakeholders to strengthen systems that allow older Nigerians to age with dignity and remain relevant within their communities.

Mrs Tinubu further advocated adequate social security measures to support the welfare of senior citizens and reduce the risks associated with ageing.

Her Independence Day message therefore combined a call for national unity with an appeal for greater attention to the welfare and dignity of older Nigerians.

She urged citizens to continue working together for a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria while ensuring that no generation is left behind.

First Lady Urges Unity, Peace As Nigeria Marks 66th Independence

Amarachi Ihesiulo

Amarachi Ihesiulo

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