President Bola Tinubu is set to meet with US President Donald Trump in the coming days to discuss allegations of Christian genocide in Nigeria, according to Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Policy Communication.
The meeting will focus on strengthening cooperation in the global fight against terrorism and religious extremism.
Bwala emphasized that both leaders share a strong commitment to tackling insurgency and terrorism, citing Trump’s support for Nigeria through arms sales, which Tinubu’s administration has effectively utilized in its counterterrorism operations.
The planned meeting follows Trump’s recent remarks accusing the Nigerian government of ignoring attacks on Christians, with Trump threatening potential military action against Nigeria to “wipe out” terrorists responsible for the killings.
The US president also warned that the US might cut off all aid and assistance to Nigeria if the government fails to stem the killings.
Bwala noted that any differences in perception regarding whether terrorists in Nigeria target only Christians or people of all faiths would be discussed and resolved during the meeting, which could take place at the State House in Abuja or the White House in Washington.
The Nigerian government has consistently rejected allegations of religious persecution, maintaining that the country’s security challenges stem from terrorism, banditry, and communal conflicts, not religion.
In response to Trump’s claims, Presidential Adviser Bayo Onanuga said President Tinubu was “well ahead of the orchestrated game unfolding in America,” emphasizing that Tinubu had already directed newly appointed service chiefs to deliver tangible results in addressing security challenges.
The meeting between Tinubu and Trump aims to clarify Nigeria’s position and strengthen bilateral cooperation on security issues.
