Oluremi Tinubu Named Leadership Newspapers Person of the Year

First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu has been named Leadership Newspapers’ Person of the Year 2025, receiving the prestigious award at the 18th Annual Leadership Newspapers Conference and Awards ceremony held recently. The award recognises her contributions to national development, civic engagement, and advocacy for unity across cultural and religious divides.

In her acceptance speech, the First Lady emphasised the importance of national unity as a foundation for sustainable development. She urged Nigerians to collaborate beyond ethnic and religious differences, noting, “The future of our nation depends on our willingness to work together, across cultural and religious differences and interests, for the good of all. For a house divided against itself cannot stand. Let us keep working together to realize the Nigeria of our dreams.”

Senator Tinubu dedicated the award to those who have mentored and supported her throughout her public service career. “I do not take this honour alone. I stand on the shoulders of a lot of people who have mentored and continued to mentor me. This Award is for all those who have helped me along the way. It is also for the many Nigerians, especially women, young people and community leaders, who work quietly every day to uplift others and ignite hope in our nation,” she said.

READ ALSO: Kola Daniel Joins 2027 Africa School Games LOC

The First Lady also expressed gratitude to Mrs. Zainab Nda-Isiah, Chairman of Leadership Newspapers, acknowledging her commitment to journalism that informs, inspires, and strengthens democracy in Nigeria. She paid tribute to the founding chairman, the late Sam Nda-Isiah, OFR, praising Mrs. Nda-Isiah for continuing his legacy. “I believe looking down today, he will be so proud of you for keeping the fire of this organization burning,” Senator Tinubu remarked.

The award ceremony featured distinguished speakers, including Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Dr. Amina Mohammed, who spoke on the event’s theme: “Political Stability and Sustainable Development in Africa in an Increasingly Unstable Global System: A Roadmap for Nigeria.” Dr. Mohammed stressed that nation-building begins with citizens and that deepening democracy is crucial for attracting investment and fostering economic sustainability in Nigeria and across Africa.

Bishop Matthew Kukah, Chairman of the occasion, urged the government to strengthen institutions to promote sustainable development, reinforcing the need for stability and accountability as pillars of national progress.

The 2025 awards honoured 27 eminent Nigerians and corporate organizations for their contributions to society, continuing a tradition instituted 18 years ago by the founder of Leadership Newspapers, the late Sam Nda-Isiah. Recipients included leaders in governance, business, civil society, and media who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to national development and public service.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s recognition reflects her growing influence as a public servant and advocate for social cohesion, empowerment of women and youth, and community development. The award underscores the role of leadership in inspiring collective action toward a more stable and prosperous Nigeria.

The ceremony was attended by policymakers, diplomats, journalists, corporate leaders, and civil society representatives, providing a platform to celebrate accomplishments, discuss governance challenges, and outline strategies for sustainable growth in the country.

By honouring the First Lady, Leadership Newspapers highlighted the importance of integrity, mentorship, and civic responsibility in shaping Nigeria’s future, sending a clear message that the contributions of committed leaders are essential for national transformation.