Close Ranks Against Trump’s ‘Threat to our Sovereignty’- Abdulsalami Urges Nigerians

By Victor Agu

The former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), has called on Nigerians to set aside political, ethnic, and religious differences and unite in defence of the country’s sovereignty.

Abdulsalami made the call in view of the recent remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump, which he described as a “serious threat to Nigeria’s unity and independence.”

Over the weekend, Trump stirred controversy after he reclassified Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern,” alleging that a “Christian genocide” was ongoing and accusing the government of failing to protect Christians from attacks by “Islamic terrorists.”

Trump went further to threaten drastic action, averring: “The USA will immediately stop all aid and assistance to Nigeria, and may very well go into that now disgraced country ‘guns-a-blazing’, to completely wipe out the Islamic terrorists killing Christians.”

The comments have sparked widespread alarm and diplomatic unease, raising concerns about possible U.S. military intervention in Nigeria.

In a telephone interview from London on Monday, Abdulsalami cautioned that such statements could destabilize the country if not handled carefully.

He urged Nigerians to respond with restraint and collective resolve rather than panic or division.

“At this crucial time, unity, wisdom, and diplomacy must take precedence over division and pride,” the former leader said.

Abdulsalami also appealed to the U.S. government to pursue partnership and cooperation with Nigeria in addressing insecurity, rather than resorting to threats.

He emphasized that “strategic dialogue” and “quiet diplomacy” remain the most effective tools for resolving misunderstandings and sustaining long-standing bilateral relations between both nations.