During his address, President Tinubu reflected on the need for Nigerians to rise above divisive tendencies that have historically hindered national unity. He shared a personal anecdote to illustrate his point, noting, “I inherited Islam from my family, and I have remained steadfast in my faith. My wife, however, is a pastor, and she prays for me constantly. I have never tried to convince or convert her, as I believe in the freedom of religion.” He emphasized that despite their differing faiths, their mutual respect and love exemplify the kind of unity Nigerians should emulate. Tinubu underscored that all people, regardless of their religious or ethnic backgrounds, are accountable to the same Almighty God and will be judged based on their deeds and character. “Our love for one another is what truly matters. We must learn to live together as one people,” he said, urging the audience to prioritize harmony and collective progress.
The president’s call for unity comes at a time when Plateau State has faced significant challenges, particularly in the areas of security and communal harmony. His message resonated with the gathering, which included a cross-section of Nigerians mourning the loss of a woman described as a beacon of selflessness and compassion. Tinubu’s presence at the funeral was a testament to the significance of Nana Lydia Yilwatda’s life and the respect she commanded within her community and beyond.
Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, also spoke at the event, expressing gratitude to President Tinubu for taking time out of his demanding schedule to attend the funeral. Governor Mutfwang acknowledged the president’s gesture as a demonstration of solidarity with the people of Plateau during a time of grief. He also addressed the issue of insecurity, which he identified as the most significant obstacle to the state’s growth and development. The governor outlined his administration’s efforts to tackle this challenge, stating that measures have been put in place to promote peaceful coexistence and restore tranquility across Plateau. “We are committed to ensuring that our people can live without fear and that our state can thrive,” Mutfwang said, emphasizing his government’s dedication to creating a secure environment conducive to progress.
Governor Mutfwang also took the opportunity to commend the First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, for her humanitarian efforts in supporting displaced and vulnerable women and children in Plateau State. He highlighted her contributions as a vital lifeline for those affected by conflict and displacement, noting that her interventions have brought hope and relief to many families. The governor’s remarks underscored the collaborative efforts between the federal and state governments to address the humanitarian challenges facing the region.
The chief mourner, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, paid an emotional tribute to his late mother, describing her as a woman of remarkable character and dedication. He portrayed Nana Lydia as a loving and committed wife who lived a life devoted to serving others. “My mother was a strong, loyal, and determined woman. She led an exemplary life filled with sacrifice and humility,” he said. Yilwatda recounted how his mother’s generosity knew no bounds, as she consistently shared whatever she had with neighbors and those in need. “Whatever I gave her, she would distribute among others. That was the kind of woman we are celebrating today,” he added, painting a vivid picture of a woman whose life was defined by selflessness and compassion.
Nana Lydia Yilwatda, who passed away at the age of 83, was laid to rest in Dungung, Kanke Local Government Area of Plateau State. Her funeral was attended by a diverse group of dignitaries, including governors, members of the National Assembly, and other prominent Nigerians, all of whom joined the Yilwatda family in mourning her loss. Prof. Yilwatda expressed deep gratitude to President Tinubu, the government of Plateau State, and all Nigerians who stood by him and his siblings during their period of grief. He noted that the outpouring of support was a reflection of the widespread respect and admiration his mother had earned throughout her life.
The funeral service was not only a moment of mourning but also an occasion to reflect on the values Nana Lydia embodied—values that President Tinubu and Governor Mutfwang urged the people of Plateau to uphold. The president’s call for unity and peaceful coexistence struck a chord in a state that has experienced recurrent ethno-religious conflicts. By invoking his personal experience of interfaith harmony, Tinubu sought to inspire Nigerians to embrace tolerance and mutual respect as foundational principles for nation-building.
Governor Mutfwang’s remarks about addressing insecurity also highlighted the broader context of Plateau’s challenges. The state has faced significant violence in recent years, including clashes between farmers and herders, as well as other communal disputes. These conflicts have resulted in loss of lives, displacement of communities, and economic setbacks. The governor’s assurance of proactive measures to restore peace aligns with the federal government’s broader agenda to address insecurity across Nigeria. The collaboration between state and federal authorities, as evidenced by the First Lady’s humanitarian efforts, signals a commitment to tackling both the immediate and long-term needs of affected communities.
The life and legacy of Nana Lydia Yilwatda, as described by her son, serve as a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have on a community. Her dedication to service, humility, and generosity left an indelible mark on those who knew her. Her funeral provided a moment for reflection not only on her personal contributions but also on the broader themes of unity, peace, and compassion that she exemplified. As Prof. Yilwatda noted, his mother’s life was a testament to the power of living for others, a principle that resonated with the messages delivered by both President Tinubu and Governor Mutfwang.
In a nation often divided along ethnic and religious lines, the funeral of Nana Lydia Yilwatda became a platform for leaders to advocate for unity and peaceful coexistence. President Tinubu’s presence and his heartfelt address underscored the importance of collective responsibility in building a stronger, more united Nigeria. His message, coupled with Governor Mutfwang’s commitment to addressing insecurity, offered a vision of hope for Plateau State and the nation at large.
As Nana Lydia was laid to rest in her hometown of Dungung, her legacy of love, sacrifice, and service continued to inspire those who gathered to honor her. The event served as a poignant reminder that even in times of grief, there is an opportunity to reaffirm the values that bind communities together. For the people of Plateau and Nigerians as a whole, the call to embrace peace, unity, and mutual respect remains a guiding light for a brighter future.