ABUJA, Nigeria — First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has called for stronger unity among Africans on the continent and in the diaspora, urging governments, institutions and communities to work together to preserve Africa’s rich cultural heritage while creating greater opportunities for people of African descent around the world.
Mrs Tinubu made the call in a message on Monday to commemorate the 2026 International Day for People of African Descent, observed annually on August 31.
The 2026 commemoration is being held under the theme, “People of African Descent: Recognition, Justice, and Development,” highlighting the importance of recognising the contributions, rights and aspirations of people of African descent and promoting inclusive development.
In her message, the First Lady said the occasion offered an opportunity not only to celebrate the history and heritage of people of African descent, but also to reflect on their enduring contributions to the development and progress of humanity.
“Today, as we commemorate the International Day for People of African Descent 2026, with the theme, ‘People of African Descent: Recognition, Justice, and Development,’ we celebrate the rich heritage and remarkable contributions of people of African descent to the progress of humanity,” she said.
Mrs Tinubu noted that while the day provides an opportunity for celebration, it should also serve as a reminder of the collective responsibility to protect fundamental human rights and build societies in which everyone has a fair opportunity to develop their abilities and fulfil their potential.
“This day also serves as a reminder of the need to renew our collective commitment to protecting human rights and creating opportunities for every individual to realise their full potential,” she said.
The First Lady further stressed the importance of strengthening the relationship between Africans living on the continent and communities of African descent across the world.
She urged Africans to see their shared history, culture and heritage as important foundations for building stronger connections, encouraging collaboration and creating opportunities that can benefit present and future generations.
“As Africans, we must continue to preserve our rich cultural heritage, strengthen unity across the continent and the diaspora, and invest in the education, empowerment, and well-being of our people,” Mrs Tinubu said.
She emphasised education, empowerment and well-being as critical areas requiring sustained attention, noting that investment in people remains essential to enabling Africans and people of African descent to reach their full potential.
The call comes at a time when discussions around African identity, cultural preservation and stronger connections between the continent and its diaspora continue to shape conversations about Africa’s future.
For Mrs Tinubu, the commemoration therefore goes beyond recognising the past. It is also an opportunity to reaffirm a shared commitment to human dignity, inclusion, development and the preservation of Africa’s cultural identity for generations yet unborn.
She urged Africans and people of African descent worldwide to continue building stronger bonds and supporting initiatives that promote education, empowerment, human rights and the well-being of their communities.
The First Lady extended her goodwill and best wishes to Africans on the continent and people of African descent across the world as they mark the 2026 International Day for People of African Descent.
She called for renewed collective action to ensure that Africa’s heritage remains protected, its people are empowered, and the bonds connecting Africans across the globe continue to grow stronger.
