Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has urged Nigerians to show more respect and support for the country’s leaders, warning that constant attacks and hate-filled narratives—especially on social media—are damaging the nation.
In a message shared on her Facebook page on Friday night, Mrs Tinubu expressed concern that many Nigerian leaders who receive honour and recognition abroad often face hostility and harsh criticism at home.
“Our leaders are respected abroad, but hated at home”
According to the First Lady, political propaganda and misinformation have contributed to the growing culture of hatred among Nigerians.
“Most of our leaders are highly respected and honored abroad, yet many Nigerians fail to value what they have because of hatred and the narratives planted in their minds by political paymasters,” she wrote.
Condemns bullying, public shaming and ridicule
Mrs Tinubu also condemned what she described as a rising trend of bullying, public shaming, and ridicule of leaders online.
“They bully these leaders, speak ill of them, demean them, curse them, and even seize upon their mistakes to drag them across social media,” she stated.
Calls for unity and cooperation
The First Lady stressed that Nigeria’s progress depends on unity and collective effort, urging citizens to work with their leaders instead of tearing them down.
“Nigeria is built on love, unity, and collective effort toward shared success. Let us come together to support our respected leaders and work hand in hand with them to make our country great,” she added.
Message comes after Trump praised her in the US
Her statement comes shortly after US President Donald Trump publicly described her as a “very respected woman” during the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C, where she was also recognised for her faith-based work and women empowerment efforts.
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