Olushola Omogbehin
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has finally reacted to Trump’s invasion threat by reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to peaceful international engagement and also declaring that his administration is “engaging the world diplomatically” despite what he described as political headwinds and fear among citizens.
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said, Tinubu’s first public response since reports surfaced that U.S. President Donald Trump had directed preparations for possible military action in Nigeria over alleged religious persecution, came on Thursday’s Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting in Abuja.
Tinubu emphasized that the Nigeria’s economic reforms have started to yield measurable results both nationally and internationally.
“The most important thing is the fact that despite the political headwinds and the fear of our people, we will continue to engage with partners. The success of the $2.3 billion Eurobond that was oversubscribed by 400% is the most assuring. So, the task ahead is immense; we are engaging the world diplomatically, and we assure all of you that we will defeat terrorism in this country.”
While addressing the nation’s security challenges, Tinubu called on Nigerians not to give in to despair because the government remains resolute in its mission to restore peace and unity.
“Do we have problems? Yes. Are we challenged by terrorism? Yes. But we will defeat terrorism. We will overcome the CPC designation. Nigeria is one happy family, and we shall spare no effort until we eliminate all criminals from our society,” he said.
President Tinubu also appealed to the international community to support Nigeria’s effort to put permanent to terrorism. “We want our friends to help us as we step up our fight against terrorism, and we will eliminate it.”
