A former Presidential Adviser, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has called on President Bola Tinubu to personally address Nigerians over the recent threat by U.S. President Donald Trump to deploy American forces to Nigeria.
Baba-Ahmed, in a statement shared on his Facebook page on Thursday, said it was “deeply troubling” that President Tinubu had not spoken directly to the nation despite the gravity of the situation.
“If President Tinubu truly has capable advisers and understands the weight of his office, he should have spoken to Nigerians by now,” Baba-Ahmed wrote.
“This is not the time for ministers or aides to issue statements. The President himself should reassure the country, clarify our position, and outline the steps his administration intends to take. Our silence makes us appear weak and without direction.”
He cautioned against any plans by the president to travel to the United States for talks with Trump, describing such a move as “ill-advised.”
“At this critical moment, Tinubu should not even think of going to America to meet Trump. It would only worsen Nigeria’s image — like receiving a slap and smiling in return,” Baba-Ahmed warned.
The former aide urged Tinubu to take decisive diplomatic steps, including appointing ambassadors and rebuilding Nigeria’s foreign relations.
“If Tinubu truly listens to those who care about this country, he must act immediately — appoint ambassadors, rebuild Nigeria’s diplomatic presence, and address the nation directly,” he added.
Trump had earlier threatened to send U.S. military forces to Nigeria if the alleged persecution of Christians was not stopped — a claim the Nigerian government has strongly refuted.
Meanwhile, China has expressed support for Nigeria, warning against any foreign interference under the guise of religion or human rights.
“As Nigeria’s comprehensive strategic partner, China firmly opposes any country using religion and human rights as an excuse to interfere in other countries’ internal affairs,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said in Beijing.
Nigeria’s Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, also dismissed the allegations, insisting that the country’s security challenges stem from terrorism, not religious persecution.
“The government disputes claims of targeted religious persecution. Since 2023, President Tinubu’s administration has neutralised over 13,500 militants and rescued more than 11,000 hostages,” Idris said.
He added that Nigeria remains open to counterterrorism cooperation with the U.S. but will continue to uphold its sovereignty and the protection of all citizens regardless of faith.
Despite international criticism, Trump reiterated on Wednesday that the U.S. “stands ready, willing, and able” to act if attacks on Christians persist.
