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The Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Rt. Hon. Abdullahi Yusuf Atah, has called on Nigerians to remain calm, prayerful, and united amid the recent diplomatic tension between Nigeria and the United States over alleged human rights violations and religious bias.
The minister’s appeal was contained in a statement issued on Saturday by his aide, Seyi Olorunsola, in Kano.
According to the statement, the minister revealed this while speaking with reporters at the Aminu Kano International Airport shortly after returning from the Lesser Hajj in Saudi Arabia.
Atah urged Nigerians especially those in the North to avoid making statements or taking actions that could worsen the situation.
“We must not allow external narratives or political misinterpretations to divide us as a people,” the minister said.
“Nigeria’s strength has always been in her diversity and her ability to overcome trials through dialogue, faith, and understanding.”
He expressed concern over comments circulating both locally and internationally, warning that they could inflame divisions if not properly managed.
He appealed to Nigerians to respond with wisdom and restraint rather than anger.
He warned against the escalation of rhetoric or actions that could inflame existing divisions, urging Northern Nigerians to avoid provocative or inciting statements capable of worsening the fragile peace in parts of the nation.
“This is a time for unity, not division. We must remain prayerful and support our leaders as they work to resolve these challenges.”
The minister also called on religious leaders both Islamic and Christian to focus on promoting peace and national cohesion rather than engaging in divisive narratives.
“I urge our clerics to lead with wisdom and encourage prayers for peace, unity, and progress,” Atah said.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to guiding the country through these difficult times, and he needs our support and goodwill.”
Atah assured the President of the loyalty and backing of the Northern people, noting that Nigeria had always emerged stronger from its challenges.
“This is not the time for despair. It is the time to believe in Nigeria again, to pray for our leaders, and to work together for the peace and progress of our beloved nation.”
Trump’s threats: We must not allow external narratives to divide us – Minister Attah
