Nigerian leaders honoured abroad, undervalued at home — Oluremi Tinubu

By Kunle Sanni –

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has said that many Nigerian leaders who enjoy respect and recognition internationally are often criticised and undervalued by citizens at home, attributing the trend to hate-driven narratives and political manipulation.

Mrs Tinubu made the remarks in a post on her official Facebook page on Friday, days after United States President Donald Trump described her as a “very respected woman” during the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, DC.

The annual event was attended by members of the US Congress, religious leaders, and international guests. While addressing participants on faith, leadership, and global religious freedom, Trump acknowledged the presence of the Nigerian first lady and commended her public and religious roles.

Trump noted that Mrs Tinubu serves both as Nigeria’s first lady and as an ordained pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the country’s largest Pentecostal denominations.

“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,” Trump said. “A very respected woman… It’s a great honour.”

Reacting to the remarks, Mrs Tinubu said the recognition highlighted what she described as a disconnect between how Nigerian leaders are viewed abroad and how they are treated domestically. She argued that many Nigerians have been influenced by persistent negative narratives promoted by political interests, leading to hostility and intolerance toward leaders, even when such leaders receive international acknowledgment.

“Most of our leaders are highly respected and honoured abroad, yet many Nigerians fail to value what they have because of hatred and the narratives planted in their minds by political paymasters,” she said.

The first lady also criticised what she described as widespread public ridicule and online abuse directed at Nigerian leaders, warning that such conduct weakens national unity and hampers progress.