First Lady Oluremi Tinubu Addresses Nation After Trump's Recognition
Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Nigeria's First Lady, has broken her silence following remarks made by former United States President Donald Trump during the 74th Annual National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, DC. Trump described the Nigerian First Lady as a "very respected woman" during the international gathering of political, religious, and civic leaders.
International Recognition Versus Domestic Criticism
In a detailed post shared on her official Facebook page on Friday night, February 6, 2026, Tinubu expressed deep concern about what she perceives as a troubling disconnect between how Nigerian leaders are treated abroad compared to their reception at home. The First Lady highlighted that many Nigerian leaders receive significant honor and goodwill internationally, yet face persistent ridicule, suspicion, and harsh criticism within Nigeria itself.
"Most of our leaders are highly respected and honored abroad," Tinubu wrote, "yet many Nigerians fail to value what they have because of hatred and the narratives planted in their minds by political paymasters, which have also hardened their hearts."
Addressing the Culture of Online Bullying
The First Lady specifically criticized what she described as a growing culture of bullying and public shaming directed at national figures, particularly through social media platforms. She noted that Nigerian leaders routinely face insults, mockery, and harsh judgment, with their mistakes often amplified and circulated for public ridicule across digital spaces.
"They bully these leaders, speak ill of them, demean them, curse them, and even seize upon their mistakes to drag them across social media, ridiculing and mocking them publicly," Tinubu stated in her social media post.
Call for Constructive Engagement and National Unity
While acknowledging that leadership naturally comes with accountability and responsibility, the First Lady emphasized that constant hostility and negativity do not contribute to national development or unity. She urged Nigerians to adopt a more constructive approach to civic engagement, one grounded in dialogue, understanding, and collective responsibility.
"Our nation is founded on love, unity, and the collective efforts of its people," Tinubu asserted. "We must work together with our leaders to move Nigeria forward."
Context of Wider Governance Debates
Tinubu's comments emerge amid ongoing public discussions about governance, leadership performance, and the influence of social media on political discourse in Nigeria. Her statement follows Trump's public acknowledgement at the National Prayer Breakfast, an event that has since generated significant reactions and discussions within Nigeria's political landscape.
The First Lady's intervention comes at a time when Nigeria continues to navigate complex challenges, including security concerns and economic pressures. Her appeal for greater respect and constructive engagement reflects broader conversations about political culture and national cohesion in Africa's most populous nation.
