The Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, has honoured Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, with the prestigious Ikele coral beads in recognition of her goodwill towards the traditional institution.
The First Lady received the honour during a visit to the monarch’s palace in Benin City, Edo State, on Thursday, where she met traditional rulers from the state’s three senatorial districts.
The decoration makes her the first Nigerian First Lady to receive the honour, which symbolises a warm welcome and appreciation.
In an address read on behalf of the monarch by his eldest daughter, Princess Ikuoyemwen Aimiuwu-Ewuare, Oba Ewuare commended Mrs Tinubu for representing Nigeria on the international stage, particularly following her recent recognition by United States President Donald Trump.
The monarch also prayed for divine wisdom and strength for President Bola Tinubu and other leaders to discharge their responsibilities.
He reaffirmed his commitment to preserving Benin’s cultural heritage, strengthening traditional institutions and promoting peace, unity and the welfare of the people.
Responding, the First Lady expressed delight at the recognition and pledged to work with traditional institutions to advance community development.
She announced plans to collaborate with rural women through her Renewed Hope Initiative, highlighting programmes aimed at supporting women, older people, vulnerable citizens and persons with disabilities through economic and social empowerment grants.
Mrs Tinubu also conveyed her husband’s goodwill message to the monarch on his 10th coronation anniversary.
“He asked me to appreciate your support and wish you well on your 10th coronation anniversary,” she said, wishing the monarch long life, good health, prosperity and peace.
The First Lady was accompanied by Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo, state first ladies and leaders of the All Progressives Congress.
She is the third prominent Nigerian woman reported to have received the Ikele beads. The other recipients are retired Edo State Chief Judge, Justice Esohe Ikponmwen, and former Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) Benin Network Centre Zonal Director, Pauline Igbanor.
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