The Nigerian government has firmly urged U.S. President Donald Trump to respect Nigeria’s sovereignty and abandon any plans to deploy American troops to its territory.
Daniel Bwala, an aide to President Bola Tinubu, made this statement on Tuesday during an appearance on Russia National TV, where he dismissed allegations of a “Christian genocide” in Nigeria as part of a politically motivated media campaign.
Bwala argued that independent global monitors and research organisations have found no credible evidence of state-backed religious genocide in Nigeria.
He claimed the narrative was driven by separatist groups, particularly the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to influence U.S. foreign policy.
He pointed out that reports fueling this narrative are contradictory. For instance, one report by the Observatory for Religious Freedom in Africa acknowledged that violence in Nigeria affects Christians, Muslims, and non-religious groups alike, yet still concluded there was a Christian genocide.
Bwala questioned how such a conclusion could be drawn when the data itself showed indiscriminate killings.
He alleged that U.S. senators like Ted Cruz had been misled by IPOB sympathisers, amplifying a false narrative about religious persecution in Nigeria.
He suggested this rhetoric had gained traction among right-wing American politicians seeking to rebuild their political relevance.
While acknowledging Nigeria’s ongoing security challenges, Bwala highlighted the government’s significant progress in combating insecurity and reiterated that the solution lies in collaboration, not external interference.
He emphasized that Nigeria would welcome U.S. assistance in the form of military technology and resources but categorically rejected the deployment of American troops on Nigerian soil, citing the need to uphold territorial integrity.
Bwala’s remarks come amid heightened tensions following Trump’s claims on social media accusing Nigeria of allowing “Christian genocide” and threatening swift U.S. military action.
