NIGERIA’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has expressed surprise and gratitude over the public recognition she received from United States President Donald Trump during her recent visit to Washington, D.C.
Speaking in an interview on Fox News while on an official visit to the United States, Mrs Tinubu said she never expected to be acknowledged personally by President Trump, describing the moment as humbling and deeply significant.
“Who would have thought that President Trump would recognise me? I am getting global recognition on all of this, and that is what life is all about. If something is going to be good, it starts from the rubbles,” the First Lady said.
Her remarks followed her appearance at the United States National Prayer Breakfast, a high-profile annual event held in Washington, D.C., which brings together political leaders, lawmakers, religious figures, and invited international guests.
At the event, President Trump publicly acknowledged Mrs Tinubu, describing her as a highly respected religious leader and recognising her influence as one of the prominent leaders of a large Christian congregation in Nigeria.
The public recognition drew attention both in diplomatic and religious circles, given the symbolic nature of the National Prayer Breakfast and its role as a platform for faith-based dialogue, leadership reflection, and informal diplomatic engagement.
According to Daily Trust, the National Prayer Breakfast is an interfaith gathering that has, over the years, served as a meeting point for global leaders and a forum for strengthening ties through shared values of faith, service, and moral leadership.
Mrs Tinubu’s presence at the event underscored Nigeria’s growing visibility in international faith and leadership conversations, particularly at a time when global cooperation and moral responsibility are increasingly emphasised in international relations.
Observers note that the First Lady’s recognition by the US President also highlights the expanding soft-power role played by spouses of world leaders, especially in areas of faith diplomacy, humanitarian advocacy, and social development.
During her visit to the United States, Mrs Tinubu has engaged with various faith-based and diplomatic stakeholders, reinforcing Nigeria’s image as a nation with strong religious institutions and influential faith leaders.
Her comments on Fox News have since sparked widespread reactions in Nigeria, with supporters describing the moment as a source of national pride and a reflection of Nigeria’s relevance on the global stage.
