Washington, D.C. – US President Donald Trump acknowledged Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Remi Tinubu, during his speech at the National Prayer Breakfast on Thursday, highlighting her role as a faith leader and influential figure in Nigeria’s religious community.

The annual National Prayer Breakfast, attended by members of the US Congress, international dignitaries, and religious leaders, featured Trump personally recognizing Tinubu in the audience. He praised her leadership in faith and her service as a Christian pastor.

“We’re honored to be joined today by the First Lady of Nigeria, who also serves as a Christian pastor at one of the largest churches in Nigeria. A very respected woman,” Trump said, acknowledging Tinubu’s presence before the gathering.

First Lady Remi Tinubu is an ordained pastor at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of Nigeria’s most prominent and influential Pentecostal denominations, where she has played an active role in religious leadership.

Trump’s remarks come amid heightened global focus on religious freedom in Nigeria. In late 2025, he designated Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” over alleged attacks on Christians — a move that sparked pushback from the Nigerian government. Officials insisted the claims were inaccurate, emphasizing that Nigeria’s security challenges affect citizens of all faiths and that constitutional protections guarantee freedom of religion for both Muslims and Christians.

The recognition of Nigeria’s First Lady at such a high-profile international event underscores her influence in promoting faith leadership and highlights ongoing discussions about religious tolerance and safety in Nigeria.