The Presidency has commended former Kano State governor and New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, for his patriotic response to recent remarks by former United States President Donald Trump, who threatened possible military action in Nigeria.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga described Kwankwaso’s reaction as a display of true patriotism. He urged other political leaders to set aside their political differences and stand with the government during this period of diplomatic tension.
“Thank you, Senator Kwankwaso, for your patriotism,” Onanuga wrote. “This is a time for all political leaders, across the divide, to unite behind our country and speak out, as patriots.”
Trump’s controversial statement, made last week, alleged that there was ongoing violence and “genocide” against Christians in Nigeria. He also declared Nigeria a “country of particular concern,” accusing the government of failing to protect religious minorities. The US politician later threatened military intervention if the Nigerian authorities did not act swiftly.
However, the Nigerian government strongly rejected the claim, insisting that no religious persecution exists in the country. Officials maintained that insecurity affects all Nigerians regardless of faith or ethnicity.
Kwankwaso, in his earlier statement, had also dismissed Trump’s claim, describing it as misleading and capable of creating unnecessary division among Nigerians. He said insecurity in Nigeria was caused by criminal elements and not religious targeting.
“It is important to highlight that our country is a sovereign nation whose people face different threats from outlaws across the country,” Kwankwaso stated. “The insecurity we face does not distinguish based on religious, ethnic, or political beliefs.”
He urged the United States to support Nigeria with advanced technology and intelligence sharing to tackle insecurity rather than issuing threats that could “further polarise the country.”
Kwankwaso also advised the Federal Government to appoint special envoys and strengthen diplomatic communication with Washington to protect Nigeria’s image and interests on the global stage.
The exchange comes at a time of heightened diplomatic attention, as both Nigeria and the United States navigate rising tensions over Trump’s remarks. While the US government has yet to issue an official clarification, Nigerian officials are reportedly working to ensure that the situation does not escalate further.
By praising Kwankwaso, the Presidency appears to be encouraging a non-partisan show of national unity, with hopes that leaders from all political backgrounds will rally to defend Nigeria’s sovereignty.
