African Descent Day: First Lady seeks stronger unity across Africa, diaspora

• …Urges investment in education, empowerment, well-being

• …Says African heritage, contributions to humanity must be celebrated

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has called for greater unity among Africans on the continent and in the diaspora, urging sustained efforts to preserve the continent’s cultural heritage and expand opportunities for people of African descent.

Mrs Tinubu also stressed the need for increased investment in education, empowerment and well-being as part of efforts to enable Africans and people of African descent across the world to realise their full potential.

The First Lady made the call on Monday in her message commemorating the 2026 International Day for People of African Descent, marked annually on August 31.

This year’s commemoration has the theme: “People of African Descent: Recognition, Justice, and Development”.

Mrs Tinubu said the occasion provided an opportunity to celebrate the rich heritage of people of African descent and their remarkable contributions to human progress.

“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.

According to the First Lady, the commemoration should also serve as a reminder of the continuing responsibility to protect fundamental rights and ensure that individuals have opportunities to 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.

Mrs Tinubu urged Africans to strengthen bonds within the continent and with communities of African descent around the world, while ensuring that the continent’s cultural heritage is preserved for 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”, she said.

The First Lady wished Africans and people of African descent worldwide a happy 2026 International Day for People of African Descent.