From Senate Halls to Ancestral Thrones: Oluremi Tinubu Receives Royal Chieftaincy Title as ‘Ugosimba 1 of Enugu’ [VIDEO]

 

A significant moment of cultural celebration and national recognition unfolded in Enugu State as First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, was conferred with the chieftaincy title of Ugosimba 1 of Enugu. The title, richly symbolic and deeply rooted in Igbo tradition, translates to “Jewel” or “Eagle from another kingdom”, emphasizing her role as a dignified figure of grace and strength beyond her geopolitical origin.

The event, which took place during the First Lady’s two-day working visit to Enugu, was organized by the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council. Led by its Chairman, His Royal Majesty Igwe Ikechukwu Asadu, the council bestowed the honour to acknowledge Mrs Tinubu’s enduring humanitarian efforts, decades of public service, and her unwavering commitment to national development.

Royalty and government officials gathered under the clear southeastern skies, as rhythmic cultural performances and chants echoed through the palace grounds. The atmosphere was both festive and solemn, echoing the weight of the title being conferred and the reverence of the moment.

“This is not just a ceremonial act,” declared Igwe Asadu. “We see a woman of vision and compassion. Her three-term tenure in the Senate was remarkable, but her work outside the political sphere touches even more lives. From empowering the underprivileged to advocating for health workers, especially nurses and midwives, Her Excellency continues to show us what it means to serve with a heart.”

Recognition of her contributions has not been limited to Enugu or even the Southeast. Senator Tinubu is already a recipient of the national honour, Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), for her legislative diligence and dedication to public welfare. Yet, the conferral of a traditional chieftaincy title represents a cultural embrace—an acknowledgment from the grassroots, the custodians of tradition, that her work resonates deeply.

Addressing the gathering, Mrs Tinubu’s voice resonated with emotion and sincerity. She described her visit to Enugu as a peaceful encounter that stirred a sense of tranquility and belonging. “Since I arrived, I have experienced an inner peace that I cannot fully describe. The people, the culture, the land—all radiate warmth and kindness,” she remarked.

Rather than viewing the honour as a solitary achievement, the First Lady framed it as a reflection of collective dignity. “This title belongs not just to me,” she said, “but to my husband, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and to our family. You have embraced me as your own, and I promise to carry this honour with dignity and gratitude.”

Expressions of admiration extended beyond royal circles. Local residents who had gathered to witness the occasion expressed their pride in the traditional council's decision. Many noted that such recognition of national figures helps bridge gaps between regions and fosters mutual respect across ethnic and cultural lines.

Her visit also included engagements focused on community development and support for health care initiatives, underscoring her ongoing commitment to social welfare. She reiterated her support for state-led initiatives that improve maternal health, youth empowerment, and girl-child education.

Observers see the title of Ugosimba 1 as a symbolic fusion of traditional values and modern leadership, showcasing a convergence where legacy and service intersect. It is a gesture that transcends politics, celebrating a woman whose influence stretches from the legislative chambers of Abuja to the ancestral thrones of Enugu.

By honouring Senator Tinubu, the Enugu Traditional Rulers Council not only acknowledged a national figure but also set a tone for inter-regional unity in a diverse country still navigating the complexities of federal character and cultural identity. The message was clear: those who uplift humanity will be embraced, regardless of origin.

As the drumming faded and the chants gave way to evening prayers, one could sense that the conferment of Ugosimba 1 of Enugu marked not just a highlight of the First Lady’s visit but a meaningful chapter in the unfolding narrative of national cohesion and mutual respect.