Remi Tinubu Tells Fox News US Intervention in Nigeria is a ‘Blessing’

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has described the intervention of the United States in Nigeria as a “blessing”.

Speaking during an interview with Fox News in Washington, D.C., Oluremi reflected on the intense scrutiny Nigeria has faced recently, including criticism over insecurity, alleged attacks on Christians, and US airstrikes targeting militant groups.

She said the attention was a significant step in bringing global attention to Nigeria’s challenges and reforms.

“It (US intervention) was quite a blessing. Who would have thought that President Trump would recognise me? Even to say the least, it was unexpected,” she said.

The first lady linked the recognition to the broader idea that good things can emerge from challenges, calling attention to ongoing reforms in Nigeria.

“If something is going to be good, it will come from the rubbles. And it starts like that. Then we have the attention, the conversations, and we expect there will be more. It’s going to yield better fruit for us, both for Nigeria and for America,” she said.

Oluremi also addressed criticisms from some US lawmakers who have raised concerns about the alleged Christian genocide in Nigeria, insisting that the government is actively tackling insecurity and working with international partners to clarify the situation on the ground.

She highlighted steps taken by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, including the recruitment of additional police and military personnel, arming forest guards to secure regions where militants hide, and redeploying officers to hotspots such as Plateau, Benue, and Taraba.

“Our country encourages freedom of religion, which is entrenched in our constitution. We are focused on protecting our people while also creating conditions for economic growth,” she added.

Trump had, on January 5 during the US National Prayer Breakfast, recognised Oluremi, describing her as a “very respected woman” and a “Christian pastor at the largest church in Nigeria”.

Her recognition comes months after US troops bombed terrorists camps in Sokoto following allegation of Christian genocide in Nigeria.

A CNN report said Trump placed Nigeria on a watchlist after watching a Fox News segment on how Christians were being persecuted.

Following these global scrutiny, the federal government employed the services of a US lobbying firm which it paid $9 million to convey Christian protection efforts.