Trump Hails Nigeria's First Lady Oluremi Tinubu as 'Very Respected Woman' at U.S. National Prayer Breakfast"

 

In a gesture highlighting growing diplomatic warmth between Nigeria and the United States, President Donald Trump publicly praised Nigeria's First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, during the 74th Annual National Prayer Breakfast held on Capitol Hill.

Spotting Mrs. Tinubu in the audience, President Trump paused his address to acknowledge her, emphasizing her prominent roles in both governance and faith. He described her as serving as a pastor at one of Nigeria's largest churches and repeatedly called her "a very respected woman" and "very respected person."

The remarks, which elicited applause, read in part: “We are honoured to be joined today by the First Lady of Nigeria, who also happens to serve as a Christian pastor at the largest church in Nigeria. A very respected woman. First Lady, please, where are you? Thank you very much. It’s a great honour... Very respected person, too.”

Mrs. Tinubu's attendance at the high-profile event underscores Nigeria's active engagement in international faith-based and diplomatic forums. As the wife of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and a former senator, she has long been recognized for her pastoral work and advocacy, particularly in Christian communities.

The National Prayer Breakfast, an annual tradition since 1953, brings together global leaders, lawmakers, and faith figures for reflections on leadership and spirituality. President Trump's comments reflect a moment of soft diplomacy, amid broader discussions on U.S.-Nigeria relations, including security, trade, and shared values.

This acknowledgment has been widely covered by Nigerian media outlets, including Vanguard, Punch, Channels TV, and others, with many viewing it as a positive signal of mutual respect on the global stage.