Senior Special Assistant to the President on Digital and New Media, O’tega Ogra, has explained the inclusion of President Bola Tinubu’s son, Seyi and Yinka, in the presidential delegation for the state trip to Qatar.
Tinubu is due to visit the Middle Eastern nation on March 2 and 3.
He is expected to be accompanied by 38 individuals.
However, the inclusion of the president’s two sons has sparked outrage on social media.
Reacting to the controversy, Ogra stated that the inclusion of the president’s sons was not uncommon.
“It is not uncommon for children of world leaders to accompany their parents on foreign trips.
“In fact, it is the norm. Canadian PM Trudeau is known to travel with his family on official trips abroad. Same with UK PMs – even if somewhat muted.
“From the public image and diplomacy angle, bringing family members can soften a leader’s public image and aid in diplomatic relations by showcasing a relatable, family-oriented side.
“For some leaders, taking their children on such trips is a way of educating them about world affairs and different cultures. Others do it to maintain some semblance of family life, despite the demands of public office, and for security considerations.
“The Obamas, Clintons, Bushs, Trumps and others went on tons of foreign trips whilst in office with their families.
“We really need to stop majoring in minors in the name of castigating everything,” Ogra said.