The Federal Government says ongoing diplomatic talks with the United States are yielding positive results in easing tensions between the two countries. Minister of Information Mohammed Idris told Sky News that communication channels had opened, and the U.S. was gaining a clearer understanding of Nigeria’s complex security challenges. He also cited links between a banned separatist group in Nigeria and U.S.-based lobbyists spreading misleading narratives.
Idris reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to religious freedom, stating that recent attacks are not driven by religious persecution. “Our constitution guarantees freedom of religion. Conflicts in parts of Nigeria are complex and diverse,” he said.
US Lawmaker Calls for Economic Sanctions
Meanwhile, U.S. Congressman Bill Huizenga criticized Nigeria’s handling of attacks on Christians, advocating targeted sanctions rather than military intervention. Speaking to Arise News, he warned Nigeria could repeat tragedies seen in Rwanda and South Sudan if action is delayed. Huizenga noted that both Christians and moderate Muslims had been targeted, and stressed that sanctions would cut funding and travel for perpetrators.
Military Assurance and Government Response
President Bola Tinubu met behind closed doors with Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, who assured improved nationwide security following operations in the Northeast. Recent airstrikes by the Nigerian Air Force have reportedly neutralized hundreds of terrorists across multiple states.
Vatican Envoy, CAN, and Afenifere Urge Dialogue
Archbishop Fortunatus Nwachukwu of the Vatican described Nigeria’s insecurity as self-inflicted, blaming deep divisions and intolerance. He urged citizens to harness diversity as a source of strength.
Similarly, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and pan-Yoruba group Afenifere called for dialogue and intelligence-based strategies rather than full-scale military interventions. Afenifere stressed that terrorism is multifaceted and requires careful planning, surveillance, and limited strikes rather than approaches like those in Iraq or Afghanistan.
Local Leaders React
Senator Orji Uzor Kalu said U.S. President Trump’s warnings were accurate but emphasized that both Christians and Muslims are victims of terrorism. He noted that global instability following conflicts in Libya and Iraq has worsened arms proliferation across Africa. Kalu clarified that the U.S. focus is on jihadist groups, not the Tinubu administration.
