US President Donald Trump on Thursday publicly acknowledged the presence of Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, during his remarks at the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, DC, commending her faith leadership and role in religious life.
The annual event, which drew members of the US Congress, religious leaders, and international dignitaries, featured Trump singling out Mrs Tinubu from the audience as he spoke on faith and global religious freedom.
“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. Thank you very much. Very respected person, too,” Trump said while scanning the audience.
Mrs Tinubu is an ordained pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), one of Nigeria’s largest and most influential Pentecostal denominations.
Trump’s remarks came amid heightened international attention on Nigeria’s security and religious landscape, following recent claims by the US President and some American lawmakers that Christians in Nigeria face widespread violence.
In late 2025, Trump designated Nigeria a “country of particular concern” over alleged attacks on Christians—a move that was strongly criticised by the Nigerian government.
The Federal Government of Nigeria rejected the designation, describing the claims as inaccurate and potentially divisive. Authorities maintained that Nigeria’s security challenges stem largely from terrorism and criminality that affect citizens across religious lines.
The government further stressed that Nigeria’s constitution guarantees freedom of religion and equal protection for both Muslims and Christians.
