In a heartfelt message delivered in Abuja on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, to commemorate Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, called on all Nigerians to rededicate themselves to the collective effort of building a stronger, more prosperous nation. Her address, imbued with optimism and a call to action, emphasized the importance of unity, sacrifice, and patriotism in achieving the Nigeria of everyone’s dreams.
Drawing inspiration from a timeless essay, “The New Frontier” by Gebran Kahlil Gibran, written in 1925, Mrs. Tinubu posed a thought-provoking question to Nigerians: “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.” This powerful quote served as a clarion call for Nigerians to adopt a selfless mindset, prioritizing the nation’s progress over personal gain. The First Lady’s reference to Gibran’s words underscored her belief that true patriotism lies in contributing to the nation’s growth rather than expecting handouts or benefits without effort.
Further reinforcing her message, Senator Tinubu cited the iconic January 20, 1961, inaugural address of the 35th President of the United States, John F. Kennedy. She quoted Kennedy’s famous words: “My fellow citizens, ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country.” She also extended Kennedy’s vision of global cooperation, referencing his appeal to the world: “My fellow citizens of the world, ask not what America will do for you, but what together we can do for the freedom of man.” By invoking these words, the First Lady connected Nigeria’s aspirations to a broader, universal call for collective responsibility and sacrifice for the greater good.
Mrs. Tinubu’s message was not merely a reflection on Nigeria’s past 65 years but a forward-looking appeal for citizens to take ownership of the nation’s future. She urged Nigerians to embody virtues such as hard work, integrity, and dedication, emphasizing that these qualities are essential for building a Nigeria that reflects the aspirations of its people. “Let us all play our part to build a Nigeria we all want to see,” she said, encouraging citizens to see themselves as active participants in the nation’s development. Her words were a reminder that nation-building is a shared responsibility, requiring contributions from every sector of society—government, private citizens, professionals, and youth alike.
The First Lady’s address also carried a tone of reassurance and hope. Acknowledging the challenges Nigeria has faced, she emphasized that sacrifices made for the country’s progress would not be in vain. “Your sacrifice will never be in vain,” she declared, instilling confidence in Nigerians that their efforts, no matter how small, would contribute to the nation’s enduring legacy. This message was particularly poignant as Nigeria navigates economic, social, and security challenges, with many citizens yearning for tangible improvements in their quality of life.
In her call to action, Senator Tinubu highlighted the importance of unity in diversity, a core principle that has defined Nigeria since its independence in 1960. She reminded citizens that the strength of the nation lies in its ability to harness the talents, energies, and perspectives of its diverse population. By working together, Nigerians can overcome obstacles and create a nation that is not only resilient but also a beacon of hope and progress in Africa and beyond.
The First Lady’s address also served as a reflection on Nigeria’s journey over the past 65 years. Since gaining independence from British colonial rule, Nigeria has made significant strides in various sectors, including education, infrastructure, and technology. However, challenges such as poverty, insecurity, and corruption have persisted, underscoring the need for continued effort and commitment. Mrs. Tinubu’s message was a reminder that independence is not just a historical milestone but a continuous process of growth and improvement.
As Nigeria celebrates its 65th year of independence, Senator Tinubu’s words resonate as a rallying cry for citizens to take responsibility for their nation’s future. Her emphasis on sacrifice, unity, and hard work serves as a blueprint for the kind of patriotism needed to propel Nigeria forward. By invoking the wisdom of global thought leaders like Gibran and Kennedy, she placed Nigeria’s aspirations within a broader context of global citizenship and responsibility.
In conclusion, the First Lady’s Independence Day message was a powerful blend of inspiration and pragmatism. It challenged Nigerians to move beyond mere expectations of what the government can provide and instead focus on what they can contribute to the nation’s progress. As Nigeria stands at the threshold of its next chapter, Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s call to action serves as a reminder that the dream of a greater Nigeria is within reach, provided its citizens are willing to work tirelessly and selflessly toward that goal.
