Tag: Oluremi Tinubu

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has described the United States military airstrikes on Islamist militants in Sokoto State on Christmas Day as a “blessing,” highlighting the significance of international collaboration in tackling Nigeria’s security challenges. Speaking in an interview with Fox News Digital, Mrs Tinubu said the operation underscored the readiness of the Bola Tinubu administration to deepen security cooperation with global partners, particularly the United States, in the fight against terrorism and banditry. According to the First Lady, President Tinubu had earlier demonstrated his commitment to addressing insecurity by declaring a state of emergency on insecurity on November 26, 2026, in response to growing concerns both locally and internationally. She explained that as part of the emergency measures, the President directed the Inspector-General of Police to recruit an additional 50,000 police officers, while 24,000 military personnel were also approved to strengthen national security operations. Mrs Tinubu further disclosed that 10,000 forest guards, who were previously unarmed, have now been authorised to bear arms in order to secure forests often used as hideouts by terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers. In addition, she said 11,566 police officers previously attached to VIP protection duties have been withdrawn and redeployed to insecurity hotspots across the country, including Plateau, Benue, Taraba, and other vulnerable communities. The First Lady stressed that the government is deeply concerned about the safety of Nigerians, noting that freedom of religion is constitutionally guaranteed and remains a core value of the country. She also linked improved security to economic growth, stating that the administration is keen on creating a safe environment that encourages foreign investment, especially as Nigeria’s economy shows signs of steady growth. While acknowledging past governance challenges, Mrs Tinubu said the current administration is focused on solutions rather than blame, adding that Nigeria is open to partnering with countries that genuinely seek its stability and progress. According to her, such partnerships are crucial to ensuring that the nation’s lingering insecurity is effectively confronted and overcome.

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Thursday met with United States President Donald Trump at the 74th Annual National Prayer Breakfast held on Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C. The high-profile gathering saw President Trump publicly acknowledge Mrs Tinubu, describing her as a “very respected woman” while addressing the audience. During his speech, Trump invited the Nigerian First Lady to stand as he recognised her presence, drawing warm applause from attendees. Introducing her, the U.S. president highlighted her role beyond public office, noting that she is also a Christian pastor at what he described as the largest church in Nigeria. “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,” Trump said. Mrs Tinubu attended the event as part of global faith and political leaders invited to the annual prayer breakfast, which brings together policymakers, diplomats and religious figures from around the world.