U.S. President Donald Trump publicly singled out Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for praise during the 74th Annual National Prayer Breakfast on Thursday, calling her a "very respected woman" and highlighting her dual role as a political figure and a Christian pastor.
Addressing a global audience of lawmakers, diplomats, and religious leaders at the Washington Hilton, Trump paused his keynote speech to specifically acknowledge the presence of the Nigerian First Lady. He emphasised her spiritual background as an ordained pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), one of Africa's largest Pentecostal denominations.
"We are honoured to be joined today by the First Lady of Nigeria, who also happens to serve as a Christian pastor at one of the largest churches," Trump told the gathered delegates. "A very respected woman. First Lady, where are you? Thank you very much. It is a great honour to have you with us."
The moment, which drew significant applause, is being viewed by international observers as a strategic "soft power" milestone for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Senator Oluremi Tinubu is currently in Washington to participate in high-level faith-based engagements, including the International Religious Freedom Summit.
Back in Nigeria, the recognition has sparked a wave of positive reactions from government officials. Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North, described the event as a testament to the inclusive governance of the current administration. He noted that the gesture highlights the religious harmony within the Nigerian presidency, where a Muslim president and a Christian first lady coexist.
"The most powerful man in the world acknowledging not just the First Lady of Nigeria but describing her as a very respectable and responsible woman is a proud moment for our nation," Oshiomhole told reporters at the State House in Abuja on Friday. "It shows that there is no religious disharmony under President Tinubu’s leadership."
The National Prayer Breakfast is a long-standing tradition in Washington, serving as a forum for political and religious leaders to discuss the role of faith in public life. Senator Tinubu’s prominent mention places her among a select group of international figures recognised during the 2026 proceedings.