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Former Presidential Adviser, Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has called on President Bola Tinubu to speak directly to Nigerians following recent threats by US President Donald Trump to deploy American military forces to Nigeria over alleged persecution of Christians.
In a statement shared on his Facebook page on Thursday, Baba-Ahmed described the president’s silence as concerning and said it undermines public confidence in the country’s leadership.
“If President Tinubu truly has capable advisers and understands the weight of his office, he should have addressed Nigerians by now.
“This is not a time for ministers or aides to issue statements. The President himself must reassure the nation, clarify Nigeria’s stance, and outline the actions his administration plans to take. Our silence projects weakness and indecision,” he said.
Baba-Ahmed also warned that any immediate plan by Tinubu to travel to the United States for talks with Trump would be ill-advised.
“At this critical moment, the President should not even consider going to America to meet Trump. It would only damage Nigeria’s image, like receiving a slap and smiling in return,” he added.
He urged the president to take decisive steps to protect Nigeria’s international reputation:
“If Tinubu listens to those who genuinely care about this country, he must act immediately, appoint ambassadors, strengthen Nigeria’s diplomatic presence abroad, and address the nation directly,” Baba-Ahmed said.
DAILY POST had earlier reported that Trump threatened military intervention in Nigeria if alleged Christian persecution continued, a claim firmly rejected by the Tinubu administration.
Information Minister Mohammed Idris claimed that allegations from the United States’ were based on “inaccurate data and misrepresentation” of Nigeria’s security challenges.
He noted that terrorism, not religious persecution, remains the country’s primary concern.
“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.
“Nigeria remains open to U.S. collaboration on counterterrorism while emphasising mutual respect for sovereignty,” Idris said.
He added that the government continues to prioritise the protection of all citizens, irrespective of religious affiliation.
Recall also that China has expressed its support for Nigeria, condemning any foreign interference under the guise of religion or human rights.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning said Tuesday, “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, or threatening them with sanctions or military force.”
Meanwhile, the United States reaffirmed its readiness to intervene should alleged Christian persecution persist. Trump reiterated on Wednesday:
“Christianity is facing an existential threat in Nigeria. The United States cannot stand by while such atrocities are happening there, and in numerous other countries. We stand ready, willing, and able to save our great Christian population around the world!”
Nigeria maintains that its constitution protects religious freedom and that security challenges affect both Christians and Muslims across the country.
Baba Ahmed urges Tinubu to address Nigerians amid US threat of military action
