First Lady Oluremi Tinubu urges Nigerians to serve the nation selflessly, saying no sacrifice is wasted as Nigeria marks 65 years of independence

As Nigeria commemorated its 65th Independence Anniversary, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu delivered a powerful goodwill message, urging citizens to embrace patriotism, service, and sacrifice in the collective quest to build a better nation.

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In her Independence Day message on Wednesday, 1 October 2025, the First Lady encouraged Nigerians not to see national progress as the responsibility of leaders alone, but as a duty shared by all.

“Let us all play our part to build a Nigeria we all want to see. Your sacrifice will never be in vain. Happy 65th Independence Anniversary. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” she said.

Mrs Tinubu reminded Nigerians that Independence Day is not just a moment of reflection, but an opportunity to recommit to national growth and unity.

She quoted Gebran Khalil Gibran’s 1925 essay, The New Frontier to underscore the difference between selfish entitlement and selfless contribution:

“Are you a politician, asking what your country can do for you or a zealous one, asking what you can do for your country? If you are the first, then you are a parasite; if the second, then you are an oasis in a desert.”

Referencing former US President John F. Kennedy’s 1961 inaugural speech, she echoed the timeless call: “Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country.”

Mrs Tinubu’s message aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s earlier address in which he acknowledged the economic sacrifices Nigerians are making amid ongoing reforms.

Both leaders emphasised the need for resilience and unity in navigating current challenges.

“The celebration of Nigeria at 65 should not merely be about looking back,” Mrs Tinubu added, “but about committing afresh to the hard work of national development.”

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The First Lady has recently been at the forefront of several national initiatives, including:

•  Championing the National Library project, which has now raised ₦20 billion.
•  Hosting the Russian BRICS Women’s Business Alliance to foster international partnerships.
•  Advocating for women’s empowerment and inclusive governance.