…insists both leaders will meet
The Presidency has clarified that discussions are ongoing between President Bola Tinubu and United States President Donald Trump, following Trump’s recent remarks declaring Nigeria a “country of particular concern” and threatening possible military action over alleged persecution of Christians.
Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Policy Communication, confirmed this in an interview on Arise Television’s Prime Time, insisting that plans for a meeting between both leaders remain on course.
Bwala said the Nigerian government has fully grasped the message conveyed by Trump and is already taking steps to address the concerns raised.
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“The federal government clearly understands the message President Trump sent to Nigeria, and Nigerians will begin to see the results soon,” he stated.
He explained that President Tinubu’s administration is adopting multiple diplomatic channels and consultations to manage the tension between both nations, adding that any engagement would follow due diplomatic protocol.
“I said Tinubu and Trump will hopefully meet, either at the White House or at the Presidential Villa, Abuja,” Bwala noted. “It could happen at any time. In diplomacy, protocol is key. When you’re building something, it must be preserved and protected.”
The presidential aide declined to disclose specific details of the diplomatic talks, emphasising that maintaining confidentiality is essential to the process.
Commenting on possible U.S. sanctions, Bwala warned that such measures could adversely affect ordinary Nigerians.
“If sanctions are imposed, it is the people who will bear the brunt. Trump doesn’t hold grudges; he says what he wants to say, and afterwards, things return to normal,” he added.
Bwala had earlier held engagements with international media outlets in Washington D.C. and New York to clarify Nigeria’s security situation. He also met with members of the Nigerian community in the U.S. under the banner of Progressives in the U.S., comprising leaders of APC USA and Renewed Hope USA.
Bwala, writing on his X handle, stated that the meeting was “facilitated by Fola Olumo, Deputy Chairman of APC USA and National Convener of the Diaspora Support for Asiwaju, brought together passionate Progressives who have remained steadfast in their support for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
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“Our conversations were frank, insightful, and deeply patriotic. We discussed the importance of telling Nigeria’s story accurately and objectively, that there is no genocide against Christians in Nigeria, but rather criminal and terrorist attacks affecting Nigerians across all faiths and regions. We emphasised the need for continuous advocacy to counter misinformation and highlight the government’s ongoing efforts in security, economy, and national development.
“Other dignitaries at the event included but were not limited to Judge Dele Alade, APC-USA BoT Chairman, and Chief Emeka Molokwu, Chairman, Renewed Hope USA.
“Progressives at the parley reaffirmed their faith in the Renewed Hope Agenda and commended the administration’s progress so far.”
According to him, “They called on the Nigerian government to sustain its push for lasting peace and urged the United States and the global community to partner with Nigeria in tackling insecurity, not through misplaced narratives, but through mutual respect, collaboration, and shared commitment to humanity.”
