Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, yesterday urged members of the National Assembly to remain mindful of their ultimate accountability to God as they carry out their legislative responsibilities. She gave the admonition while speaking at the dedication and commissioning of the National Assembly Chapel in Abuja, describing the occasion as both historic and spiritually significant.
Addressing Christian lawmakers and, by extension, all legislators, the First Lady reminded them that though they make laws for the people, they would ultimately give account to God for their actions.
“Leadership is a sacred trust,” she said, stressing that public office demands integrity, humility, and a constant consciousness of divine judgment. She encouraged lawmakers to allow the fear of God guide their decisions, especially in matters that affect the lives and welfare of millions of Nigerians. The event attracted an array of prominent dignitaries from across the country. Among them were former Head of State, Yakubu Gowon; President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio; Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu; former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara; and the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto, Matthew Hassan Kukah, among others.
The chapel project was originally conceived during the eighth Assembly, when its foundation was laid. However, it was left uncompleted until the current 10th Assembly revived and successfully delivered it. Senator Tinubu described the commissioning as deeply personal, recalling her 12 years as a federal legislator. She recounted how Christian lawmakers, in the absence of a dedicated worship space within the complex, often gathered in committee rooms for fellowship and prayers.
“We did not have a befitting place of worship then,” she said, noting that the completion of the chapel symbolizes not only progress but also recognition of the spiritual needs of lawmakers. She expressed hope that the chapel would serve as a sanctuary for reflection, prayer, and moral renewal, urging legislators to seek divine wisdom as they navigate the complexities of governance.
In their separate remarks, other dignitaries at the event commended the leadership of the 10th Assembly for completing the project, describing the chapel as a unifying spiritual centre within the legislative complex. The ceremony concluded with prayers for the nation and its leaders, with calls for peace, unity, and righteous governance as Nigeria continues its democratic journey.
