United States President Donald Trump has publicly acknowledged Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, during the National Prayer Breakfast held in Washington, DC, describing her as a respected faith leader.
The annual gathering, which brings together members of the US Congress, religious leaders, and international guests, saw Trump single out Mrs Tinubu from the audience as he spoke on the role of faith and religious freedom around the world.
“We are honoured to have with us today the First Lady of Nigeria, who also serves as a Christian pastor at the largest church in Nigeria. A very respected woman,” Trump said while asking her to stand for recognition.
He went on to thank her for attending, repeating his praise for her leadership and influence.
Mrs Tinubu is an ordained pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), founded by the late Pastor Josiah Akindayomi, but currently presided over by Pastor Enoch Adeboye. RCCG is one of Nigeria’s most prominent Pentecostal ministries.
Trump’s remarks came at a time of heightened international focus on Nigeria’s security challenges, particularly allegations of violence against Christians.
In October 2025, Trump had designated Nigeria as a “country of particular concern,” citing attacks on Christians — a claim strongly disputed by the Nigerian government.
The Federal Government maintained that insecurity in the country is driven by terrorism and criminal activities affecting Nigerians regardless of religious background, stressing that the constitution guarantees freedom of worship.
The controversy later led to discussions on Nigeria’s security situation in the US Congress and to increased security cooperation between the two nations, including the formation of a US–Nigeria Working Group.
