Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, says the public commendation of Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, by United States President Donald Trump reflects the spirit of religious harmony and inclusive governance under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Mediaplusng.com reports that Oshiomhole makes the statement while speaking with State House correspondents on Friday evening, shortly after meeting President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. He says the moment sends a strong message that Nigeria, under the current leadership, promotes unity beyond religious or ethnic differences.
The former Edo State governor refers to President Trump’s remarks at the National Prayer Breakfast held in Washington, D.C., where the U.S. leader publicly acknowledges the Nigerian First Lady before a global audience. Trump describes Senator Oluremi Tinubu as a respected and influential woman, drawing attention to her leadership role and moral standing.
Mediaplusng.com also reports that Trump highlights the First Lady’s background as a Christian pastor, noting her influence within one of Nigeria’s largest churches. The recognition, delivered at a high-profile faith-based event attended by political and civic leaders from different countries, attracts wide applause and international attention.
Oshiomhole says the moment is significant because it reflects positively on Nigeria’s image abroad. According to him, it shows that Nigeria’s leadership is viewed as tolerant, balanced, and respectful of religious diversity, even at the highest levels of global diplomacy.
He explains that President Tinubu’s leadership style allows people of different faiths to coexist and thrive without fear or marginalisation. In his view, Trump’s remarks underline the fact that Nigeria does not operate a divided system where religion determines acceptance or relevance in public life.
The senator notes that President Tinubu, a Muslim, is openly celebrated alongside his Christian wife, who is also a pastor. He describes this as a powerful symbol of unity, especially in a country often challenged by religious and ethnic tensions.
Oshiomhole says he visits the President not only to extend New Year greetings for the first time in 2026 but also to formally congratulate him on the international recognition given to the First Lady. He describes the praise from the U.S. President as a rare and meaningful moment for Nigeria.
According to him, President Trump is known globally for speaking bluntly and without diplomatic filters. Therefore, Oshiomhole argues that the commendation of Senator Tinubu should be taken seriously, as it reflects genuine respect rather than scripted diplomacy.
He recalls how Trump invites the First Lady to stand for recognition during the event, a gesture that draws applause from the audience. Oshiomhole says the scene fills many Nigerians with pride and reinforces the country’s image as a place where faith and leadership can coexist peacefully.
The former national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) says the reaction would have been different if the situation were reversed. He suggests that critics would have raised concerns if a Nigerian leader praised a foreign First Lady in a similar manner, yet in this case, the recognition is widely celebrated.
Oshiomhole insists that the moment should be seen as a lesson for Nigerians, especially political actors, to reduce divisive rhetoric and focus on national unity. He says the applause at the event reflects global approval of Nigeria’s diversity when properly managed.
He adds that the message from Washington is clear: leadership should rise above religious divisions. According to him, the fact that a Muslim president and a Christian First Lady receive global recognition together shows that national identity should come before personal belief.
Oshiomhole says the recognition supports the argument that there is no inherent conflict between Islam and Christianity in Nigeria. He describes the relationship between the President and the First Lady as proof that peaceful coexistence is possible at both personal and national levels.
He urges Nigerians to focus on shared goals such as development, security, and economic growth rather than allowing religion to divide them. In his words, challenges should be addressed collectively, while progress should be enjoyed by all citizens, regardless of faith.
The senator stresses that Nigeria has its challenges, but believes they are being addressed gradually through inclusive policies and dialogue. He says running down the country or constantly projecting negativity does not help national development.
Oshiomhole believes the international recognition of the First Lady should encourage Nigerians to appreciate positive moments and build confidence in their institutions. He says such moments help reposition the country on the global stage.
He also points out that Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s role goes beyond ceremonial duties. According to him, her influence in faith-based and social development initiatives adds value to governance and national cohesion.
The lawmaker says the Tinubu administration continues to promote national unity through appointments, policies, and engagement across religious and regional lines. He describes this approach as essential for stability in a diverse country like Nigeria.
Oshiomhole adds that the President understands the importance of symbolism in leadership. He says allowing religious diversity to be visible at the highest level of government sends a reassuring signal to citizens and the international community.
He calls on Nigerians to draw inspiration from the moment and embrace cooperation rather than suspicion. According to him, unity does not erase differences but manages them for the common good.
As reactions continue to trail Trump’s remarks, Oshiomhole maintains that the event should be remembered as a positive chapter in Nigeria’s diplomatic and social history. He says it reinforces the idea that Nigeria can project unity despite its diversity.
He concludes by urging citizens to support efforts aimed at strengthening peace and mutual respect. In his view, the recognition of the First Lady abroad reflects what is possible when leadership promotes inclusion and tolerance at home.
