By Atoyebi Nike
The All Progressives Congress in the United States has appealed to U.S. President Donald Trump to adopt diplomatic engagement rather than consider military action following his designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern.” The appeal was made in a statement issued Tuesday by APC USA Chairman, Prof. Tai Balofin, in Washington.
Balofin commended Trump’s advocacy for global religious freedom but said sustainable peace is achieved through dialogue, not threats. His comments followed Trump’s October 31 remarks and a subsequent post urging U.S. forces to “prepare for possible action,” which has triggered widespread international reactions.
He warned against foreign misinterpretation of Nigeria’s complex security challenges, describing the violence as multidimensional and affecting both Christians and Muslims. Balofin emphasized that many incidents referenced in global reports occurred before President Bola Tinubu assumed office, insisting the administration has since taken decisive steps to curb insecurity.
Citing the June 2025 Yelwata massacre in Benue State, where more than 200 Christians were killed, Balofin praised Tinubu’s swift intervention, including arrests and the detention of 41 suspects. He dismissed claims of government indifference as politically motivated attempts to weaken the president ahead of the 2027 elections.
Balofin urged the U.S. to deepen its partnership with Nigeria through support for judicial reforms, interfaith dialogue, and diaspora-led initiatives aimed at strengthening mutual understanding. He assured Nigerians living abroad that diplomatic efforts are underway to de-escalate tensions.
He added that APC USA would continue back-channel engagements to ensure the U.S. president receives accurate information and avoids escalating the situation. According to him, the controversy presents an opportunity to strengthen U.S.-Nigeria relations based on shared values and cooperation.
