Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, on Thursday returned to her maternal ancestral home in Warri, Delta State, where she called on Nigerians to embrace unity beyond ethnic and religious differences.

Warri Kingdom is the First Lady’s maternal ancestral home.

Accompanied by prominent traditional rulers from the South West, including the Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Mrs Tinubu was received at a grand ceremony attended by Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, members of the National Assembly, and other dignitaries.

At the royal palace of the Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III conferred on the First Lady the honorary chieftaincy title of Utukpa-Oritse of Warri Kingdom, meaning “Bearer of Light and Prosperity.”

Describing the occasion as “a homecoming filled with gratitude and pride,” Mrs Tinubu acknowledged her Itsekiri heritage as foundational to her values and public service.

She also announced a N50 million empowerment package for 1,000 women engaged in petty trading in Warri Kingdom under her Renewed Hope Initiative. She pledged further support for young men in collaboration with the Delta State Government.

Reflecting on national unity, the First Lady noted the coincidence of the Christian Lenten season and the Muslim fasting period, describing it as a divine call for togetherness. Citing Psalm 133, she urged Nigerians to “embrace unity beyond ethnic and religious divides.”

The Olu of Warri described her visit as “divinely ordained and symbolic of a new season of unity, healing, and alignment for the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large.” He commended her humility and steadfast support for her husband, while presenting requests on behalf of the kingdom.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Oborevwori praised Mrs Tinubu’s record during her time in the Senate, noting her consistent support for policies that positively impacted Nigerians.

“We can all attest to how she stood firm during her time in the Senate. Nigerians are blessed to have a humble and compassionate First Lady who genuinely cares for the poor and vulnerable in our communities,” the governor said.

He noted that the visit marked her third official trip to Delta State in two years, recalling her August 2024 visit to launch the Renewed Hope Initiative empowerment programme for the South-South in Asaba, and her March 2025 visit to introduce the Free to Shine programme, during which 10,000 professional kits were distributed to midwives across the region.

The governor also commended her respect for traditional institutions, recalling that during a previous visit she honoured royal fathers outside the official programme.

“That act of love and respect made many things easier for me as governor. Even when we were in opposition, she showed us love. God will continue to bless you,” he added.

Oborevwori further referenced her participation at the 4th National Prayer Congress in the United States, describing her as a global icon who represented Nigeria with distinction.

Reaffirming Delta State’s support for President Bola Tinubu and his reforms, the governor assured the First Lady of continued backing for the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“Please tell Mr President that Delta State stands firmly with him and his reforms for a better nation. You can always count on our support,” he said.

The visit also provided an opportunity for the governor to highlight ongoing infrastructure projects in Warri, including the Trans-Warri Road and the Enerhen flyover, with plans for further expansion toward the Nigerian Ports Authority corridor.