Nigeria is seeking a diplomatic path to ease growing tensions with the United States following former President Donald Trump’s explosive remarks accusing the Nigerian government of allowing persecution against Christians and threatening potential military intervention.
Trump’s comments, made on his Truth Social platform, alleged that Nigeria was experiencing a “Christian genocide” and warned that the U.S. could “go in guns-a-blazing” if the killings continued.
He also directed the “Department of War” to prepare for possible action, stating that any U.S. strike would be “fast, vicious, and sweet.”
The Nigerian government has rejected any notion of confrontation, emphasizing dialogue and international cooperation instead. Information Minister Mohammed Idris told reporters in Abuja that Nigeria prefers to resolve the issue diplomatically.
“Channels have been opened, and we prefer this situation to be solved through diplomacy. Nigeria will continue to engage with regional and international partners, including the United States,” he said.
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President Bola Tinubu echoed the same sentiment, affirming that Nigeria remains committed to protecting religious freedom while maintaining strong ties with Washington.
However, Trump’s accusations that Nigeria has been complacent in defending Christians from extremist attacks have sparked heated debate across the country.
While some Nigerians have supported U.S. intervention, others insist that the issue remains an internal affair that should not warrant foreign involvement.
The controversy has already begun to weigh on Nigeria’s economy. Investor confidence has waned, leading to a decline in the naira’s value.
The currency closed at ₦1,436.34 per dollar on Monday—a one-day loss of ₦14.61, or 1.03 percent—while parallel market rates hit ₦1,455 per dollar. Trading activity also dropped sharply, with total volume and value traded plunging by nearly 88 percent and 45 percent respectively.
As both nations navigate the diplomatic fallout, Nigeria’s government continues to advocate for dialogue and mutual respect, hoping to prevent an escalation that could destabilize its economy and foreign relations.
