- Trump paused to recognise Mrs Tinubu, praising her religious commitment and leadership role within the Christian community
- Trump’s remarks came at a time of heightened global focus on Nigeria’s security challenges
- He described the Nigerian First Lady as a respected figure who also serves as a pastor in one of Nigeria’s largest churches
US President Donald Trump drew attention to Nigeria at the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, DC, on Thursday when he publicly acknowledged the country’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, during his address.
Speaking before an audience that included US lawmakers, faith leaders and international guests, Trump paused to recognise Mrs Tinubu, praising her religious commitment and leadership role within the Christian community, Eko Hot Blog gathered.
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He described the Nigerian First Lady as a respected figure who also serves as a pastor in one of Nigeria’s largest churches, inviting her to stand as he expressed appreciation for her presence at the event.
Mrs Tinubu is an ordained pastor with the Redeemed Christian Church of God, founded by Pastor Enoch Adeboye, a Pentecostal movement with millions of members across Nigeria and beyond.
Trump’s remarks came at a time of heightened global focus on Nigeria’s security challenges, particularly following assertions by him and some US lawmakers that Christians in the country face targeted violence.
Towards the end of 2025, Trump listed Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” over alleged persecution of Christians, a decision that sparked pushback from Nigerian authorities.
The Federal Government rejected the label, arguing that insecurity in the country stems from terrorism and criminal activity affecting people of all religious backgrounds.
Officials have repeatedly maintained that Nigeria remains a secular state with constitutional protections for freedom of worship for both Christians and Muslims.
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