U.S. President Donald Trump has praised Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, describing her as a “very respected woman” during the National Prayer Breakfast held on Thursday in Washington, D.C.
Trump made the remarks while addressing participants at the faith-based gathering, which attracted political and civic leaders from across the world. His acknowledgment of Mrs Tinubu drew applause from the audience and highlighted her influence and standing on the global stage.
While recognising her presence, Trump also referenced the Nigerian First Lady’s pastoral role, noting her background as a Christian minister.
“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. Thank you very much, it’s a great honour, a very respected person too,” Trump said.
The comments placed Mrs Tinubu among notable global faith leaders in attendance at the event, which brings together political leaders, clergy, and policymakers for prayers and reflections on leadership, governance, and national values.
Later in his address, Trump again drew attention to Mrs Tinubu as he spoke on faith and religious freedom worldwide.
“We’re 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,” he said.
Mrs Tinubu is an ordained pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), led by Pastor Enoch Adeboye, one of Nigeria’s largest and most influential Pentecostal denominations.
Trump’s remarks came amid continued international focus on Nigeria’s security situation, following claims by him and some U.S. lawmakers that Christians in Nigeria face widespread violence. In October 2025, Trump designated Nigeria a “country of particular concern” over alleged attacks on Christians a move that was strongly rejected by the Nigerian government.
The Federal Government described the designation as inaccurate and harmful, insisting that Nigeria’s security challenges stem from terrorism and criminality affecting citizens of all faiths. It further stressed that the country’s constitution guarantees religious freedom for both Christians and Muslims.
The disagreement later prompted a U.S. Congressional hearing on Nigeria’s security situation and led to enhanced bilateral engagement, culminating in the establishment of the U.S.–Nigeria Working Group on security cooperation.
