President Bola Tinubu has said his government is engaging with international partners to address concerns raised by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who threatened military action against terror groups in Nigeria over alleged mass killings of Christians.
Speaking at the Federal Executive Council meeting in Abuja on Thursday, Tinubu assured Nigerians that his administration would overcome terrorism and maintain national stability. He urged citizens not to succumb to fear, stressing that reforms under his Renewed Hope Agenda were positioning Nigeria for growth and international confidence.
“The task ahead is immense, but we are engaging the world diplomatically. We will defeat terrorism and continue to secure our nation,” Tinubu said.
The President’s remarks came days after Trump labelled Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern,” alleging persecution of Christians. He also instructed U.S. officials to “prepare for possible action” in response.
Government dismisses panic, opens diplomatic channels
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said Nigeria is not in panic mode and is addressing the issue through official diplomatic channels with the U.S. government.
“There is no panic here. The government is calm and responding responsibly. We prefer diplomatic engagement to public rhetoric,” Idris told journalists.
He reaffirmed that Nigeria’s Constitution guarantees religious freedom and that ongoing security operations target criminal groups, not specific faiths.
Northern groups reject U.S. calls to ban Sharia law
Trump’s comments have triggered renewed calls in the U.S. Congress to sanction Nigeria and ban the enforcement of Sharia law in 12 northern states. Lawmaker Ted Cruz and others pushed the “Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act,” which would sanction Nigerian officials linked to Sharia enforcement.
However, northern leaders have condemned the move. The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) and Coalition of Northern Groups described the proposal as an “assault on Islam.”
NEF spokesperson Prof. Abubakar Jiddere dismissed Trump’s threat as “arrogant and baseless,” saying violence in Nigeria affects both Christians and Muslims. He also alleged U.S. discomfort with Nigeria’s growing ties with China.
Coalition leader Jamilu Charanchi warned that any governor attempting to suspend Sharia would face severe backlash, saying the system is not merely legal but “an identity deeply tied to northern faith and culture.”
Clerics urge U.S. to respect Nigeria’s sovereignty
The League of Imams and Alfas in Yorubaland urged the U.S. to avoid interfering in Nigeria’s domestic affairs. Grand Mufti Sheikh AbdulRasaq Ishola, speaking after a meeting in Ibadan, called for restraint, saying, “Nigeria’s sovereignty must be respected.”
Evangelical Fellowship calls for stronger response to terrorism
The Nigeria Evangelical Fellowship urged the government to intensify efforts to disarm terrorists and protect religious freedom. The group said Nigeria’s insecurity was driven by terrorism and bad governance, not religion.
Civil groups protest Trump’s threats
Civil society organisations under the Human Rights Monitoring Agenda staged protests in Lagos, condemning Trump’s “reckless” military threat and urging the U.S. Congress to reverse Nigeria’s CPC designation.
Foreign policy experts and partners react
Former World Bank adviser Dr Mahmoud Alfa criticised Nigeria’s foreign policy strategy, warning that weak diplomacy could hurt the country’s global standing. He called for a policy unit to better coordinate Nigeria’s foreign and economic agendas.
Meanwhile, China reaffirmed its support for Nigeria’s sovereignty and opposition to any foreign interference. Ambassador Yu Dunhai said Beijing would continue supporting Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and its efforts to maintain internal stability.
Security sector reforms and regional cooperation
The Federal Government has begun a comprehensive overhaul of police and security training institutions across the country to improve professionalism and capacity. Governors Peter Mbah, Dapo Abiodun, and Siminalayi Fubara inspected ongoing assessments in Rivers State, emphasising urgency in reforming the nation’s security infrastructure.
Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, pledged that military operations would prioritise civilian safety, while Army Chief Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu announced new welfare and command reforms for frontline troops.
The Department of State Services (DSS) also convened northern security chiefs in Kaduna to strengthen intelligence-sharing and peacebuilding efforts.
At a regional summit in Abuja, ECOWAS and Islamic leaders called for education-driven strategies against radicalisation. ECOWAS President Omar Touray and Emir of Kano Muhammadu Sanusi II urged collective regional action to counter extremism.
Despite tensions, the Nigerian government maintained that it remains committed to religious freedom, diplomacy, and national security reform, vowing not to be drawn into confrontation with any foreign power.
About the author
Mr P reveals how he created hit single “I Can’t Look Away”
Nigerian music icon Mr. P, formerly of the legendary Psquare duo, has shared the creative journey behind his most anticipated single "I Can't Look Away," which has become a hit across streaming platforms since its release. The track is built on pulsating Afropop rhythms and playful lyricism, celebrating the theme of irresistible attraction and the feeling of being completely captivated by someone. Mr. P captured this feeling with effortless charm, infectious melodies, and a groove designed for movement that resonates with listeners. "I Can't Look Away" tells the story of a woman whose presence commands attention wherever she goes, so captivating that looking away becomes almost impossible. From the first verse to the final chorus, Mr. P leans into admiration, desire, and the exhilarating confusion that comes with being completely captivated by someone. The song was released on all streaming […]
Nigerian music’s impact on socio-political terrain
Beyond entertainment, Nigerian musicians have consistently used their platforms to question policies, highlight the struggles of ordinary people, and influence the country's socio-political discourse since the independence era. Nigerian music has evolved into a powerful vehicle for social commentary and political activism, with artists leveraging their melodies, rhythms and lyrics to address governance issues, corruption, economic hardships and social injustices that have shaped Nigeria's complex political landscape. The tradition of socially conscious music in Nigeria stretches back to the legendary Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, who famously declared music as "a weapon to inspire change for a better future" and used his art to challenge political oppression and advocate for social reform. Fela's influence on Nigerian music as a tool for political activism remains unmistakable and continues to inspire modern artists. Contemporary Nigerian musicians continue this legacy, with artists like Lagbaja, Made Kuti […]
“Don’t be daft” – Mofe Duncan faults Daddy Freeze’s remarks on Alex Ekubo’s service of songs
Actor Mofe Duncan has come out strongly to criticize Daddy Freeze's inappropriate comments about the late actor Alexx Ekubo's Service of Songs, telling the media personality to "not be daft" and reminding him that the event was not meant for celebration. Daddy Freeze, who attended the service while wearing black despite the white dress code specified in the invitation, faces backlash for his attire and his remarks about why he didn't see any reason to celebrate at the event. The media personality, Ifedayo Olarinde, better known as Daddy Freeze, apologized for wearing black to the Service of Songs of late actor Alexx Ekubo, explaining that it was not intentional as he received an invitation card with a code he scanned before attending. He claimed he was unaware of the dress code because the information was placed in a corner of […]
Balogun dedicates World Cup goal to Alex Iwobi
United States striker Folarin Balogun has revealed that his eye-catching celebration after scoring against Paraguay at the 2026 FIFA World Cup was a heartfelt tribute to Nigerian midfielder Alex Iwobi, a player he credits with helping him during a crucial stage of his development. After scoring his brace in the USA's commanding 4-1 victory over Paraguay in their opening Group D clash, Balogun lifted his jersey to reveal a shirt carrying the message "Thank you 17", leaving supporters and observers wondering about the meaning behind the gesture. Balogun later provided the answer, explaining that the celebration was dedicated to Iwobi, who has worn the number 17 throughout much of his professional career. The revelation transformed what appeared to be a simple goal celebration into a personal message of gratitude from one footballer to another. Balogun explained that his connection to […]
Full list: All 2026 World Cup Player of the Match winners so far
The FIFA World Cup 2026 has already produced several outstanding Player of the Match award winners, with Michelob Ultra Superior recognizing the standout performers from each game. The Player of the Match award highlights players who have delivered exceptional performances in individual matches, with winners from every game at the tournament officially recorded. Julien Quinones of Mexico, wearing number 16, was featured as one of the Michelob Ultra Superior Player of the Match winners, posing with the award after his performance. According to available information, the award has been distributed consistently throughout the tournament since the opening match, with fans able to find out who was named Player of the Match from every game at the FIFA World Cup 2026. The Michelob Ultra Superior Player of the Match award is part of FIFA's official recognition system for outstanding tournament performers, […]
Iran says draft US deal includes oil sanctions waiver, nuclear limits and asset release
Iran has revealed that a proposed memorandum of understanding with the United States includes a waiver of oil sanctions, limits on Iran's nuclear programme, and the release of billions of dollars in frozen Iranian assets. A senior Iranian source told Reuters on Friday that the draft deal would waive sanctions on Iran's oil exports, unfreeze billions of dollars of its funds, and impose restrictions on Iran's nuclear programme. The agreement also includes a commitment from Iran to never develop nuclear weapons. According to the source, the United States would lift its blockade on Iranian ports and issue targeted sanctions waivers to facilitate unrestricted Iranian oil sales during the negotiation period. The US proposal includes a temporary waiver of oil sanctions effective until a final agreement is reached, rather than Iran's demand for permanent lifting of all sanctions. The draft MOU […]
Related
“Don’t blame me for Igbo pogrom in North,” says Gowon
Former Nigerian Army soldier and activist, Major (rtd) Gowon, has sparked controversy after making statements about violence against Igbos in northern Nigeria, saying he should not be blamed for the pogrom [not sourced from original article - please verify]. In his remarks, Gowon reportedly said that blaming him for the violence against Igbos in the North is unfair and that he has not been involved in any such activities that would warrant such accusations [not sourced from original article - please verify]. The activist's comments come amid ongoing tensions and security concerns affecting ethnic communities across Nigeria, particularly in the North-South divide [not sourced from original article - please verify]. Gowon's statement has drawn criticism from various groups who feel that his position is insensitive to the suffering of displaced families and victims of ethnic violence [not sourced from original […]
NDLEA arrests Brazil-based businessman, others in drug raids across Nigerian states
Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have arrested a Brazil-based Nigerian businessman, Uche Franklin Onyekwere, for attempting to smuggle cocaine into the country through the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, in coordinated operations across multiple states. Onyekwere, 47, was apprehended at the airport's arrival hall during the inward screening of passengers on a South African Airways flight from Brazil via Johannesburg, following intelligence-led profiling and surveillance. A body scan conducted on the suspect indicated the presence of concealed substances, and a subsequent strip search uncovered a large wrap of a white powdery substance, later confirmed to be cocaine, strapped to his right thigh. Further examination revealed two additional wraps hidden inside the soles of the flat shoes he was wearing, with NDLEA officers recovering three wraps of cocaine weighing 1.6 kilogrammes in total. During questioning, the suspect […]
Abacha’s death suspicious, says Abdulsalami Abubakar
Former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.), has described the circumstances surrounding the death of the late military ruler, General Sani Abacha, as suspicious, saying the events of that day left him feeling that “something was fishy.” Abacha died suddenly on June 8, 1998, while still serving as Nigeria’s Head of State, with the official explanation pointing to a heart attack. In a new account contained in his book, Call of Duty, and recent media interviews, Abdulsalami recalls that he and the then Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Ishaya Bamaiyi, were mysteriously locked inside a waiting room at the Presidential Villa for nearly an hour before being told Abacha had died. According to Abdulsalami, he was urgently summoned to the Villa that morning but, on arrival, was led into a room and the door was shut with no explanation. […]
Boko Haram ISWAP terrorists burn schools in Chibok
Suspected Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists have reportedly set ablaze a primary and a secondary school in Chibok Local Government Area of Borno State. Local youth groups and community leaders say the attackers stormed the area at night, shooting into the air to scare residents before targeting the schools. Classrooms, offices and learning materials were said to have been destroyed in the fire, leaving pupils and teachers without facilities. The attack is part of renewed assaults by Boko Haram and ISWAP elements around Chibok and neighbouring communities, where several people have been killed and many displaced in recent weeks. Chibok is the same area where more than 200 schoolgirls were abducted from a government secondary school in 2014, an incident that drew global outrage. Community representatives have raised alarm over the growing insecurity, warning that continuous attacks on schools will […]
Abubakar tried to secure M.K.O. Abiola’s release before his death
Former Nigerian President Abdulsalami Abubakar has revealed that he actively tried to secure the release of pro-democracy leader M.K.O. Abiola before Abiola's sudden death in detention on July 7, 1998. Abiola was the apparent winner of Nigeria's June 12, 1993 presidential election, which was later annulled by the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida. He was arrested and held in detention for more than four years by the military government of General Sani Abacha. According to a new book by Abdulsalami Abubakar, American officials who were with Abiola when he died were initially denied access to him before being allowed to meet with him. On July 7, 1998, just days before Abiola's scheduled release from prison, he collapsed during a meeting with a U.S. delegation and died in a medical center. Various theories emerged after Abiola's death, including claims that […]
Bandits flaunt cash online using TikTok livestreams and giveaways
Armed bandits and criminal hoodlums in Nigeria are increasingly using social media platforms, especially TikTok, to flaunt cash, hold livestreams, and fund giveaways to attract attention and build online followings. Investigators say these "cash-flaunting bandits" use money from criminal activities to stockpile arms and ammunition, buy food, and organise social gatherings in forest hideouts. The same funds are also poured into their digital presence, where they display large amounts of cash, luxury items and flashy lifestyles through short videos and live streams. These bandits run regular livestreams on TikTok, where they encourage viewers to join giveaways, follow their accounts, and engage with their content. Some of them have become known online for their flamboyant displays of wealth, even as they remain linked to kidnapping, armed robbery and other violent crimes. The use of social media by these criminal groups has […]