Otega Ogra, the Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Digital/New Media, has defended the President’s inclusion of his sons, Seyi and Yinka, among the delegation going with him to Qatar for a business and investment meeting.

Ogra said that some world leaders take their children on state visits to educate them about world affairs and different cultures and to maintain a semblance of family life despite the demands of public office.

Recall that President Tinubu’s sons – Seyi and Yinka – were among the delegation to travel with the President on a state visit to Doha, Qatar.

Defending Tinubu’s inclusion of his sons in the list of people to join the President on his state visit to Doha, Qatar, Ogra, in a post on his X handle on Tuesday, said, “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.”