Oshiomhole: Trump’s recognition of Oluremi Tinubu worth celebrating

By Muhyideen Jimoh

Sen. Adams Oshiomhole (APC-Edo North) has described as U.S President Donald ‘respectful comments’ about First Lady, Mrs Oluremi Tinubu as responsible, respectable, and an inspiration to Nigerians nationwide.

Trump made the comment about Nigeria’s First Lady at the 74th Annual National Prayer Breakfast held on Capitol Hill, Washington, DC on Thursday.

The US president acknowledged the presence of Oluremi Tinubu while commeding her role as Nigeria’s First Lady and a religious leader while addressing the audience amid applause,

“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, ” Trump said at the prayer breakfast.

Speaking to journalists at the Aso rock presidential villa on Friday, Oshiomhole said Trump’s public recognition of Nigeria’s First Lady carried a strong message of diplomacy, unity, and national cohesion.

He spoke after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, describing the encounter as cordial and respectful.

Oshiomhole highlighted that Trump’s remarks emphasise religious harmony, noting that Tinubu is a Muslim, while his wife is a Christian pastor, symbolising Nigeria’s religious diversity.

“The recognition shows Trump understands that the Nigerian President is a Muslim, but he celebrates his Christian wife, who is also a pastor.

“So there can be no tension between the Qur’an and the Bible,” Oshiomhole explained, saying the message is a model for peaceful coexistence.

“The public applause following the recognition reflects the positive impression created. For me as a Nigerian, that is worth celebrating,” Oshiomhole said, urging unity and national pride.

He stressed that the development should remind Nigerians to cooperate for the common good, overcome national challenges collectively, and strengthen unity across all regions and communities.

Oshiomhole said governance must deliver benefits fairly to all citizens, noting that shared progress is essential for social stability and national development.

The senator revealed he visited President Tinubu to greet him and wish him a happy new year, having not seen him since the start of 2026.

(NAN)