Nigeria’s First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has said that her relationship with people who do not believe in God rarely lasts long, emphasizing the importance of faith in personal relationships and national unity.
She made the remarks on Thursday evening while hosting an Interfaith Breaking of Fast event that brought together Muslim and Christian leaders at the Old Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The gathering coincided with the overlapping observances of Ramadan and Lent, symbolizing unity between the country’s major religious communities.
Speaking during the event, the First Lady reflected on her nearly four decade marriage to her husband, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is a Muslim. She said that throughout their marriage, they have maintained mutual respect and understanding despite their religious differences.
According to her, she could hardly recall moments when both of them raised their voices at each other in almost 40 years of marriage. She described their relationship as one built on maturity, respect and shared commitment to peaceful coexistence.
The First Lady used the opportunity to encourage Nigerians to promote religious tolerance and reject attempts to divide the country along faith lines. She noted that many Nigerian families include members of different religious backgrounds who live together peacefully.
She also urged women leaders to serve as role models and mentors for younger generations. According to her, women have a critical role in shaping the values and character of young people through guidance and positive example.
Addressing the issue of national tensions often linked to religion, she said Nigerians must focus on shared values such as compassion, integrity and service to humanity.
The event attracted several high profile personalities including former First Lady Patience Jonathan, wife of the Vice President Nana Shettima, wife of former Vice President Namadi Sambo, and wife of Senate President Ekaette Akpabio, alongside female lawmakers, ministers, judges and other women leaders.
Participants at the gathering emphasized the importance of unity, integrity and collaboration in addressing national challenges and strengthening Nigeria’s social cohesion.
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