The Federal Government wishes to clarify and formally address the recent diplomatic incident involving the United States, which was triggered by statements from former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding alleged mass killings of Christians in Nigeria and the subsequent threat of military intervention. The Government asserts that this episode has been managed in accordance with established diplomatic protocols and national interests, and that the matter is now considered resolved.

At a press briefing in Abuja, the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, provided an official account of the Government’s actions. The Minister emphasized that the Federal Government approached the situation with the requisite maturity, discipline, and adherence to Nigeria’s core principles. At no point were the nation’s interests compromised, nor was the sovereignty of the Federal Republic of Nigeria placed at risk.

Minister Idris stated unequivocally that the Government’s engagement with the United States was conducted in a firm and respectful manner, resulting in the restoration and further strengthening of bilateral relations. The Minister underscored that the Government’s handling of the situation serves as a model for the responsible management of sensitive international matters, and that Nigeria’s sovereignty and dignity were preserved throughout the process.

Contrary to unfounded speculation and alarmist narratives, the Minister noted that the relationship between Nigeria and the United States has not deteriorated. On the contrary, the two countries have entered a new phase of enhanced cooperation, as evidenced by the recent signing of a five-year, $5.1 billion Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on health sector collaboration. Under this agreement, the United States will provide $2.1 billion in grant funding, while Nigeria will contribute $3 billion. This represents the largest co-investment to date under the America First Global Health Strategy and is expected to yield significant improvements in Nigeria’s healthcare system.

The Minister further cautioned against the spread of misinformation and the tendency to misinterpret diplomatic developments. He reiterated that the Federal Government remains committed to transparency and the protection of national interests in all international engagements. The Government will not tolerate attempts to undermine its efforts or to sow discord between Nigeria and its strategic partners.

On the matter of diplomatic representation, the Minister confirmed that Nigeria’s newly appointed ambassadors will assume their posts following the completion of all statutory processes, including clearance and confirmation by the National Assembly. This is in line with the Government’s commitment to due process and the maintenance of high standards in foreign service appointments. The deployment of these ambassadors is expected to further enhance Nigeria’s global standing and facilitate the advancement of national interests abroad.

The Federal Government wishes to remind all stakeholders that Nigeria’s foreign policy is guided by the principles of proactivity, integrity, and the unwavering pursuit of the nation’s interests. The recent resolution of the diplomatic disagreement with the United States, and the signing of significant bilateral agreements, demonstrate the Government’s capacity to navigate complex global challenges responsibly and effectively.

The Government urges all citizens and observers to refrain from sensationalism and to place their trust in the established institutions and processes that safeguard Nigeria’s sovereignty and international reputation.