First lady Oluremi Tinubu has called for sustainable peace and unity across Nigeria, particularly in the Niger Delta region, to promote lasting progress and development.

Mrs Tinubu made the call during a grand homecoming reception organised in her honour by the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, in Warri, Delta. She was conferred with the title of Utukpa-Oritse Iwere of Warri Kingdom by the monarch.

Mrs described her homecoming as a visit filled with gratitude and pride, expressing deep emotions over the honour accorded her. She urged Nigerians, especially the Itsekiri ethnic group, to shun personal interests and work collectively for progress in Iwere land.

“Nigeria has to be united. People are saying there is religious battle between Christians and Muslims.

‎”Look at the way God did it, both started the fasting and Lent period the same time. What is that telling us? It is telling us love and unity. ”When we are united, that is when God commands His blessings,” she said.

The first lady said she was proud of her Itsekiri heritage, describing it as fundamental to her values and public service.

“l came here because His Royal Ogiame has given me such tremendous support since the beginning of this administration. The Olu and his wife have come to the Presidential Villa, Abuja, countless times, and to our house in Lagos. I am proud of the culture of my roots,” she said.

She thanked Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and the traditional rulers in the state for the warm reception, as well as expressing appreciation to the Olu of Warri for the honour bestowed on her.

She announced a N50 million empowerment support for 1,000 petty traders in Warri Kingdom under her Renewed Hope Initiative.

Mr Oborevwori described the first lady as a blessing to Nigeria.

“Nigerians are blessed to have a humble and compassionate first lady who genuinely cares for the poor and vulnerable in our communities,” he said

The governor described Mrs Tinubu as a worthy daughter of the Itsekiri nation with an outstanding record of public service.

“We can all attest to how she stood firm during her time in the Senate,” Oborevwori said.

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(NAN)