President Bola Tinubu is set to visit the United States on Tuesday amid escalating tension over allegations of Christian genocide in Nigeria and threats of military intervention by U.S. President Donald Trump.
According to reports from SaharaReporters, Tinubu’s visit will involve high-level diplomatic meetings with top U.S. officials to strengthen bilateral cooperation on counterterrorism and security.
Presidential sources revealed that Trump has delegated Vice President James David Vance to meet with Tinubu during the visit, barring any last-minute changes.
The planned meeting follows growing tension after Trump accused the Nigerian government of allowing systematic killings of Christians. He warned that the United States might “go into Nigeria guns-blazing” if the situation persists.
Trump’s remarks, which have sparked global debate, came with a direct instruction to the U.S. Department of War to prepare for possible action. “If we attack, it will be fast, vicious, and sweet—just like the terrorist thugs attack our cherished Christians,” Trump declared.
Earlier, Tinubu’s Media Aide, Daniel Bwala, confirmed that both leaders were expected to meet soon, either in Abuja or Washington, to discuss ways to enhance counterterrorism efforts.
Bwala said Tinubu and Trump share a common vision in combating terrorism and violent extremism, emphasizing that the Trump administration had supported Nigeria’s security sector through arms sales.
“President Trump assisted Nigeria by authorizing arms sales, and President Tinubu has effectively utilized that support in the fight against terrorism,” Bwala stated.
He added that any differences regarding whether terrorists in Nigeria target Christians exclusively or all faiths would be addressed during the upcoming discussions between both leaders.
The Nigerian presidency has since rejected claims of genocide against Christians. In a statement released on Saturday, President Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to religious freedom and equality.
“Nigeria stands firmly as a democracy governed by constitutional guarantees of religious liberty,” Tinubu said.
He noted that since taking office in 2023, his administration has maintained active engagement with Christian and Muslim leaders to address security challenges affecting all citizens.
“The portrayal of Nigeria as religiously intolerant does not reflect our reality,” Tinubu stated, adding that his government remains dedicated to promoting peaceful coexistence and protecting all faith communities.
Tinubu emphasized that religious tolerance is central to Nigeria’s national identity, stressing that his administration does not support or condone persecution based on faith.
“Our administration is committed to working with the United States government and the international community to deepen understanding and safeguard communities of all faiths,” he affirmed.
The upcoming visit is expected to determine how both leaders navigate the mounting diplomatic tension between Washington and Abuja following Trump’s warning and global outrage over Nigeria’s alleged religious violence.