APC USA Urges Trump to Pursue Diplomacy, Not Military Action, Over Nigeria’s Religious Freedom Designation

The All Progressives Congress (APC) chapter in the United States has appealed to former U.S. President Donald Trump to prioritize diplomatic engagement with Nigeria rather than resorting to military action, following Washington’s recent designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern.”

In a statement released in Washington on Tuesday, APC USA Chairman, Prof. Tai Balofin, commended Trump’s longstanding advocacy for global religious freedom but emphasized that dialogue remains the most effective way to address Nigeria’s complex security challenges.

“President Trump’s vigilance honours the sacred values that unite America and Nigeria. Yet, in the annals of statecraft, it is through dialogue—not division—that enduring peace is forged,” Balofin stated.

Trump’s remarks on October 31, followed by a November 2 post on his Truth Social platform urging U.S. forces to “prepare for possible action,” have drawn widespread international reactions.

Responding to the U.S. designation, President Bola Tinubu described it as a “gross exaggeration,” affirming his administration’s commitment to collaborate with international partners to combat extremism and preserve national unity.

Prof. Balofin cautioned against mischaracterizing Nigeria’s internal security situation, describing it as multidimensional, often driven by communal and resource-based conflicts that affect both Christians and Muslims.

He further noted that many of the major incidents cited in foreign reports occurred before Tinubu assumed office in 2023, adding that the current administration has made decisive efforts to restore security. Citing the June 2025 Yelwata massacre in Benue State, where over 200 Christians were killed, Balofin praised Tinubu’s swift response—including his visit to the affected area, direct orders for arrests, and the detention of 41 suspects within weeks.

“President Tinubu demonstrated empathy and firmness. His prompt actions sent a clear signal that impunity will not be tolerated under his watch,” the APC USA chairman said.

He dismissed claims that the Tinubu government is indifferent to insecurity, describing such narratives as politically motivated attempts to discredit the administration ahead of the 2027 elections.

“Tinubu’s political opposition is working to frustrate his government and undermine its transformative agenda. These distortions, amplified internationally, are designed to harm his reputation and deter foreign investment,” Balofin asserted.

He called on the U.S. government to deepen its partnership with Nigeria through judicial reforms, interfaith dialogue, and diaspora-led initiatives that promote understanding and accurate reporting.

Balofin assured Nigerians in the diaspora that diplomatic efforts are underway to de-escalate tensions and correct misconceptions, adding that “through APC USA’s advocacy and backchannel engagements, President Trump will receive the full tableau of facts, averting any military horizon.”

He concluded that the controversy should serve as a chance to strengthen U.S.-Nigeria relations on the foundations of mutual respect, cooperation, and shared democratic values.