Trump’s threats unhelpful, Nigeria needs support — Kwankwaso

Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the presidential candidate of the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP) in the 2023 general elections, has appealed to U.S. President Donald Trump to assist Nigeria with advanced technology to combat insecurity instead of threatening military intervention.

Kwankwaso made this appeal in a statement on Sunday while responding to Trump’s recent remarks accusing the Nigerian government of neglecting attacks on Christians and threatening to launch military operations against terrorist groups in the country.

Trump’s warning followed Nigeria’s public endorsement of a two-state solution to the Middle East conflict and its condemnation of killings in Gaza, a position that has reportedly triggered allegations of “Christian genocide” in Nigeria.

Kwankwaso emphasised that Nigeria is a sovereign nation facing complex security challenges that affect all religions and ethnicities.

“It is important to emphasise that our country is a sovereign nation whose people face different threats from outlaws across the country.”

“The insecurity we face does not distinguish based on religious, ethnic, or political beliefs,” he said.

The former defence minister urged the U.S. government to use its influence and resources to support Nigeria’s fight against insecurity rather than making divisive remarks.

“The United States should assist the Nigerian authorities with better cutting-edge technology to tackle these problems, rather than posing a threat that could further polarise our country,” he added.

He also advised the Nigerian government to take a more active diplomatic stance in engaging Washington, including appointing experienced envoys and ambassadors to represent Nigeria’s interests abroad.

“The Nigerian government should consider appointing special envoys from its distinguished diplomats to engage the American government.”

“Additionally, it is necessary to appoint permanent ambassadors to represent Nigeria’s interests on the international stage,” he said.

Kwankwaso further urged Nigerians to remain united amid rising international tensions, saying this was a time to prioritise national unity over division. “God bless Nigeria,” he concluded.