By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola
First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called for greater unity among Africans and increased investment in education, empowerment and the well-being of people of African descent.
Tinubu made the call in a message posted on the official X account of the Office of the First Lady, @statehouse_FL, on Monday, 31 August, 2026, to commemorate the International Day for People of African Descent.
The 2026 observance, themed “People of African Descent: Recognition, Justice, and Development,” celebrates the heritage and contributions of people of African descent while highlighting the need to protect human rights and create opportunities for individuals to realise their full potential.
Tinubu said the occasion should also renew the collective commitment to preserving Africa’s cultural heritage, strengthening unity across the continent and the diaspora, and investing in the development and welfare of its people.
“As Africans, we must continue to preserve our rich cultural heritage, strengthen unity across the continent and the diaspora, and invest in the education, empowerment, and well-being of our people,” she said.
The First Lady noted that the commemoration was not only an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of people of African descent but also a reminder of the responsibility to promote human rights and ensure that individuals have the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to society.
She therefore urged Africans to sustain efforts towards building a more united and inclusive community while advancing opportunities for development across the continent and the diaspora.
Tinubu concluded by extending her goodwill to people of African descent as they marked the 2026 International Day for People of African Descent.
