Nigeria’s First Lady Oluremi Tinubu calls on citizens to abandon entitlement mentality and embrace responsibility, unity, and integrity during an interfaith Ramadan and Lent gathering.
Oluremi Tinubu Calls for Responsibility and National Unity
Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has called on Nigerians to abandon what she described as an “entitlement mentality” and instead adopt values such as responsibility, integrity, and service to the nation.
Her remarks were contained in a statement issued on Thursday by her Senior Special Assistant on Media, Busola Kukoyi.
According to the statement, the First Lady made the appeal while hosting an interfaith gathering for women during a joint breaking of fast event marking both the Muslim Ramadan fast and the Christian Lenten season.
Interfaith Gathering Highlights Unity
The event brought together women from different sectors and religious backgrounds across the country.
During the gathering, Mrs. Tinubu said the simultaneous observance of Ramadan and Lent sends a strong message about unity, peace, and coexistence among Nigerians.
She noted that the overlap of the two important religious periods could serve as a reminder that the country’s diversity should be a source of strength rather than division.
According to her, Nigerians have historically lived peacefully together despite belonging to different religious traditions.
Rejecting Religious Division
The First Lady also addressed concerns about attempts by some individuals to create tension along religious lines.
She emphasized that in many Nigerian families, people of different faiths coexist harmoniously, often within the same household.
Drawing from her own experience, she referenced her marriage to Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, saying that mutual respect and understanding have been central to their nearly four decades together.
She explained that respect for each other’s beliefs has played an important role in maintaining harmony in their marriage.
Women’s Role in Leadership and Governance
Mrs. Tinubu also used the opportunity to encourage women, especially those whose spouses hold public office, to actively contribute to responsible leadership and national development.
She stressed that women often play influential roles in shaping values within their families and communities, which can impact governance and leadership in the country.
According to her, women must recognize their responsibility in promoting positive values that support good governance.
Mentorship for the Next Generation
The First Lady further highlighted the importance of mentoring younger generations.
She said the future of Nigeria depends largely on the values and guidance that adults pass on to young people.
Encouraging women to take active roles in mentoring, she stressed that teaching integrity, discipline, and service would help shape responsible leaders for the future.
Experts Stress Integrity in Public Service
Also speaking at the event, a director at National Open University of Nigeria, Ganiyat Adejoke Adesina-Uthman, delivered a lecture focused on ethics and leadership in public service.
Her presentation, titled “Serving with Excellence, Compassion and Integrity in Public Life,” highlighted concerns about declining public trust in government institutions.
She emphasized that integrity remains an essential and non-negotiable value for individuals serving in public office.
According to the academic, leaders must demonstrate accountability, transparency, and compassion if they hope to rebuild trust and deliver meaningful service to citizens.