Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has been conferred with the prestigious traditional title of Utukpa-Oritse (also known as Ugbọnẹ́, meaning “Light of God”) of the Warri Kingdom by His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Olu of Warri.
The honor, bestowed during a heartfelt homecoming ceremony in Warri, Delta State, recognizes her maternal Itsekiri roots, her exemplary public service, and her contributions to national unity, women’s empowerment, and humanitarian efforts. She was also decorated with the Royal Order of Iwere (ROI), one of the kingdom’s highest distinctions.
The event highlighted themes of unity, peace, and progress. Speaking at the ceremony, the First Lady urged Nigerians—particularly the people of Warri Kingdom—to embrace unity despite differences, quoting Psalm 133:1–3 from the Bible: “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! … for there the Lord commanded the blessing.”
“Where there is unity, there is prosperity,” she emphasized, assuring attendees of the federal government’s continued support and commending Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori for his effective leadership.
On behalf of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), Senator Tinubu donated ₦50 million to empower 1,000 women petty traders in the state, providing financial support to help them grow their businesses.
Governor Oborevwori praised the First Lady’s genuine care for Nigerians, noting her multiple visits to Delta State—even before his political alignment shifted to the APC—and how her initiatives, including past empowerment programs and campaigns, influenced his decisions.
The Olu of Warri expressed immense pride in Senator Tinubu, describing her as a shining example for women and girls in the kingdom. He encouraged residents to let go of past grievances to foster lasting peace, progress, and prosperity, adding that Warri Kingdom’s women are known for their nurturing care of families and that the First Lady exemplifies this virtue.
The ceremony drew large crowds and underscored the deep cultural and personal ties between the First Lady and her ancestral homeland.
