The First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, on Thursday in Abuja, received the Leadership Newspaper Person of the Year 2025 award for her compassionate impact on citizens.
Chairman of Leadership Newspaper, Mrs Zainab Nda-Isaiah, said Tinubu had redefined the ceremonial role of First Lady into a platform for disciplined and data-driven social investment.
“Through the Renewed Hope Initiative, what distinguished her work is not just her generosity but organisation systems that ensure help reach those who needs it most, ” Nda-Isaiah said.
Tinubu expressed gratitude for the recognition, saying the award symbolised national unity, service and collective purpose.
She called for cohesion across political, cultural and religious divides, noting Nigeria’s progress depended on unity amid global and domestic challenges.
“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.
“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 said she did not receive the honour alone but alongside citizens and partners supporting humanitarian service.
She listed those supporting humanitarian service as the former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Dr Amina Mohammed, governors, lawmakers, traditional rulers, and senior government officials.
She commended Nda-Isaiah for sustaining the vision of the newspaper’s late founder, 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.
She also praised the newspaper’s commitment to journalism that informed, inspired and strengthened 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.
Tinubu specially commended Mohammed for her lifelong commitment to Africa’s development and guidance on national choices.
The First Lady described the event as an opportunity to honour outstanding individuals and express gratitude at the beginning of the year.
Tinubu dedicated the award to Nigerians who believe in compassion, selflessness and service to humanity.
“I dedicate this award to every citizen who believes that selflessness and humaneness can truly change lives.
“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.
She urged citizens to work together to build a united and prosperous nation.
