The Federal Government has finally shed light on why President Bola Tinubu has not travelled to the United States or held a direct meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump.
According to the government, the visit will happen only when the atmosphere is “right” and aligns with the President’s diplomatic plans.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, stated this during an interview on Friday on Channels Television’s Politics Today, while reacting to the growing tension between both countries.
Fresh Clarification From the FG
Idris noted that President Tinubu has already visited the U.S. in the early days of his administration, especially during the United Nations General Assembly.
He explained that the decision on when to return to Washington is purely strategic and would be taken at the appropriate time.
The Minister also pushed back against claims that the President was avoiding the U.S. over recent diplomatic friction.
He stressed that Nigeria remains open to dialogue with all partners.
Rising Strain Over Trump’s Comments
Tension between Abuja and Washington spiked after President Trump redesignated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern, accusing the government of failing to stop what he called the widespread killing of Christians.
The former U.S. president went further, issuing a strong warning and threatening potential military action if Nigeria does not address insecurity.
Trump claimed that the U.S. could withdraw assistance and “go in guns blazing” if the situation persisted.
His comments have since sparked global reactions and raised new questions about Nigeria-U.S. relations.
Nigeria Moves to Calm Diplomatic Waters
In response, President Tinubu dismissed allegations of targeted attacks against Christians, insisting that the Nigerian Constitution protects all citizens equally.
A federal delegation led by the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, has already travelled to the U.S. for consultations and diplomatic engagement.
The FG says the visit is aimed at clearing misconceptions, strengthening cooperation, and ensuring that both countries maintain stable ties.
Idris added that while there are serious security challenges, the government is taking major steps to contain the situation across the country.
U.S. Congress Steps In
The issue gained more attention on Thursday when the U.S. Congress held a public hearing on Nigeria’s new CPC designation.
Lawmakers reviewed the security situation in Nigeria, noting the rising cases of banditry, terrorism, and kidnappings.
The hearing came just days after fresh mass abductions of schoolchildren in Kebbi and Niger States.
Nigeria, Africa’s largest democracy, remains under pressure to address the growing wave of violence.
In a related development, POLITICS NIGERIA earlier reported the visit of the Nigerian government delegation to Washington for diplomatic consultations following the CPC controversy.
