Olufunke Aladejare
The President of United States of America, Donald Trump has publicly referenced President Bola Tinubu’s family for the first time while acknowledging Nigeria’s first lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu during the 74th National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C.
The high-profile faith gathering turned into a subtle display of soft power as Tinubu’s presence drew warm commendation from Trump before an audience of global political and religious leaders.
“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. A very respected woman,” Trump declared, prompting applause.
He then paused to address her directly: “First Lady, where are you? Thank you very much. It is a great honour to have you with us.”
Trump, who has previously spoken broadly about Nigeria in policy contexts, had not publicly singled out the Tinubu family at a major international platform.
His remarks effectively placed Nigeria’s First Family within the spotlight of American political and faith diplomacy.
The National Prayer Breakfast, known for fostering informal relationship-building among leaders, offered Tinubu an opportunity to project Nigeria’s presence beyond traditional statecraft.
