By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola
First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has urged Nigerians to choose love over division, peace over conflict and hope over despair as the country marks its 66th Independence Anniversary.
In her Independence Day message issued ahead of the Thursday, 1 October, 2026 celebration, Tinubu called on Nigerians to nurture the country’s diversity through peace, tolerance, dialogue, unity and love for the nation.
She said Nigeria’s journey since independence in 1960 had been marked by resilience, sacrifices, challenges and continued efforts to build a stronger and more prosperous nation.
“Since gaining independence in 1960, we have overcome various challenges, embraced change, and continued to build a stronger and more prosperous nation,” she said.
The First Lady described Nigeria’s diversity as one of the country’s greatest assets, urging citizens to protect it by promoting peaceful coexistence, mutual understanding and national unity.
Quoting American civil rights leader, Martin Luther King Jr., Tinubu said, “Love is the most durable power in the world.”
She urged Nigerians to embrace love, peace and hope as they work collectively towards building the Nigeria of their dreams.
Tinubu also called for a renewed commitment to unity, stressing the need for citizens to look beyond differences and contribute positively to the country’s development.
She prayed for the continued blessings of Almighty God on Nigeria, as well as protection for its people, strength for national unity and guidance for the country’s leaders.
The First Lady further prayed for enduring peace, prosperity and progress for the nation as Nigerians commemorate 66 years of independence.
She congratulated Nigerians on the anniversary and expressed hope for a more united, peaceful and prosperous country.
