Senator Ali Ndume has cautioned that Nigeria risks facing serious diplomatic repercussions if the Federal government fails to urgently address growing tensions with the United States.
The former Senate Leader called on the government to engage Washington immediately, following recent remarks by U.S. congressman Riley Moore and former President Donald Trump, which have reignited concerns over religious violence in Nigeria.
Ndume faulted Nigerian authorities for downplaying the “Christian genocide” allegation raised by Congressman Moore, saying the issue should have been handled more seriously before Trump’s latest designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” on Friday.
“I have alerted the government; I even moved a motion.
“Nigeria is a sovereign State.
“It’s not about what the United States can do to us, but about the misconception and ripple effects of classifying us as a country of concern,” Ndume said.
He urged the government to respond with verifiable facts and data, stressing that the violence in Nigeria affects all citizens regardless of religion.
“Muslims have also been victims. The crisis is not targeted at Christians alone.
“We must engage the U.S. government and present the true picture of what’s happening,” he stated.
To manage the situation effectively, Ndume called on the Presidency to assemble a team of respected diplomats and foreign policy experts, including Chief Emeka Anyaoku, Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, Babagana Kingibe, Professor Sulu Gambari, and Amina Mohammed.
“Before things escalate, Nigeria should deploy its best diplomatic hands like Chief Emeka Anyaoku, Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, Babagana Kingibe, Professor Sulu Gambari, and Amina Mohammed to engage Washington and the United Nations.
“The U.S. Embassy in Abuja must also be carried along,” he advised.
Ndume expressed optimism that with the right approach, Nigeria can correct the negative narrative, maintain strong bilateral relations with the U.S., and sustain ongoing military cooperation in combating terrorism.
His remarks follow Trump’s latest statement categorizing Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern,” a move that analysts warn could strain diplomatic and security ties if not properly addressed.