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Mike Odeh James

CLEEN Foundation has launched a three-day Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Stakeholder Inception Training and commenced the formal inauguration of State Multi-Stakeholder Implementation and Monitoring Committees (SMIMCs) across five project states—Kaduna, Nasarawa, Imo, Plateau, and Benue.

The initiative, implemented in collaboration with state-level partners, is designed to strengthen the domestication and execution of Nigeria’s National Action Plan (NAP) on Women, Peace and Security. It seeks to tackle the persistent gendered impacts of conflict, insecurity, and governance gaps that continue to disproportionately affect women and girls, particularly in the North-Central and South-East regions.

Speaking during day one of the training in Kaduna State, the Executive Director of CLEEN Foundation, Peter Maduoma—represented by Programme Manager, Chigozirim Okoro—said that despite Nigeria’s national commitments to the WPS agenda, implementation at the sub-national level remains weak, fragmented, and poorly coordinated.

“Several states either lack functional State Action Plans or have inactive implementation structures, resulting in minimal progress on key WPS pillars, including participation, protection, prevention, relief, and recovery,” he said.

The newly inaugurated SMIMCs are expected to serve as inclusive coordination platforms that bring together government institutions, security agencies, civil society organisations, traditional and religious leaders, women mediators, youth groups, and the media. Their responsibilities include planning, overseeing, and monitoring WPS interventions in their respective states. Each committee is also tasked with ensuring that state-level actions align with national frameworks while adapting approaches to local realities.

CLEEN Foundation noted that these committees will track state-level commitments through the Security Accountability Project (SAP), strengthen collaboration among institutions, and promote gender-sensitive decision-making within peace and security processes.

The ongoing workshops focus on building the technical capacity of committee members on WPS principles, monitoring tools, reporting frameworks, and coordination mechanisms. Participants will also develop state-specific implementation roadmaps to guide the operationalization of WPS commitments.

Each state training is expected to host at least 30 participants drawn from the Ministries of Women Affairs, Justice, and Internal Security; gender committees of State Houses of Assembly; security agencies including the Police, DSS, Civil Defence, Correctional Service, and the military; faith-based organisations; traditional institutions; media stakeholders; and members of the WPS network, He4She ambassadors, and SIC networks.

The inception workshops took place in Imo, Nasarawa, and Benue States from November 11–13 and are ongoing in Plateau and Kaduna States from November 18–20, 2025.

Across the five project states, CLEEN Foundation anticipates strengthened coordination, improved accountability, increased visibility of WPS commitments, and enhanced engagement of women and youth in peace and security decision-making processes.

Christian and Muslim organisations under the umbrella of the Coalition for Peace and Justice have concluded plans to convene a National Mega Peace Summit aimed at promoting unity and strengthening the fight against insecurity across Nigeria.

The interfaith summit, scheduled to hold next week Saturday in Kaduna and Abuja, is expected to attract grassroots religious leaders from across the country, particularly from the northern region.

In a press statement jointly signed by the Chairman and Secretary, Dr. Othman Musa Idris and Pastor John Simon Jita, the coalition reaffirmed that unity, mutual understanding and collective action remain essential to overcoming the forces threatening the nation’s peace and development.

According to the organisers, the summit will provide a strategic platform for Christian and Muslim leaders to engage in dialogue, exchange perspectives and develop joint approaches to tackling the rising threats of terrorism, banditry and violent extremism.

They noted that faith leaders play a critical role in shaping public attitudes and influencing community responses to security challenges. The gathering, therefore, seeks to harness their influence in mobilising communities toward peacebuilding, conflict resolution and improved security cooperation.

Discussions at the summit will also focus on practical steps to end violence, foster peaceful coexistence and reinforce the shared commitment of both religions to safeguarding lives and restoring stability in affected communities.

At the end of the deliberations, a joint communiqué is expected, outlining agreed positions, recommendations and a coordinated framework to support national security efforts and advance sustainable peace across the country.

The International Peace Advocacy Forum (IPAF) has commended Senator Abdul Aziz Yari for what it described as his exceptional and consistent contributions toward promoting peace, unity, and religious tolerance across Northern Nigeria.

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Dr. Emmanuel Haruna, the forum praised the former Zamfara State Governor for demonstrating exemplary leadership through deliberate and sustained engagements with both Christian and Muslim communities aimed at building trust and fostering harmony.

According to the group, Senator Yari’s continued outreach to churches, victims of banditry, and survivors of insurgency attacks reflects his deep compassion and unwavering commitment to the welfare of all Nigerians regardless of religious or ethnic background.

“As a former governor and now a serving senator, Senator Yari has shown courage and empathy in defending vulnerable communities. His efforts to protect Christian populations during periods of heightened insecurity remain commendable and worthy of national recognition,” the statement read.

IPAF noted that Yari’s interventions over the years have helped calm tensions in several affected communities, encouraging dialogue, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence at a time when the region faces complex security challenges.

The forum urged political, religious, and community leaders across the country to emulate Senator Yari’s inclusive leadership style, which it described as essential for strengthening national unity.

It further reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to advance peace-building initiatives and enhance social harmony across Nigeria.

Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has emerged as one of Nigeria’s most notable performing governors. His administration’s “MORE Agenda” — Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security — has provided a clear governance roadmap, translating vision into tangible outcomes across infrastructure, social welfare, and fiscal management.

Delta State under Governor Oborevwori is proving that clear vision and disciplined execution can deliver real, measurable change.

In virtually every sector, the protagonist of the M.O.R.E. Agenda, Chief Sheriff Oborevwori, has demonstrated unrivaled competency, unflinching capacity, and unwavering clarity of purpose.

Infrastructure Delivery: Roads, Bridges, Connectivity

The Oborevwori administration has prioritized large-scale infrastructure expansion. Over 510 road and bridge projects, covering nearly 1,450 km, are ongoing. A significant number have already been completed in less than two and a half years of his tenure.

Major urban interchanges — PTI Junction, DSC Roundabout, Enerhen Junction — are being transformed to improve mobility. Similarly, critical projects are linking Asaba communities to the State Capital, deepening inter-community access.

Rural and riverine communities are also receiving long-neglected connectivity upgrades, enhancing commerce, mobility, and daily life. From urban centres to remote villages, Delta State is witnessing infrastructure that truly connects its people.

Fiscal Discipline and Economic Growth

Delta State has recorded remarkable fiscal gains under Governor Oborevwori. Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) rose from ₦83 billion in 2023 to ₦158 billion in 2024.

The state’s debt stock dropped from ₦465 billion to ₦249 billion, reflecting fiscal prudence — even as infrastructure development continues without excessive borrowing.

These figures underscore an administration that manages public resources efficiently while delivering large-scale projects.

People-Centred Governance

Human capital and social inclusion remain central to the administration. Within two years and six months, thousands of teaching and non-teaching staff have been recruited across Delta’s LGAs.

Governor Oborevwori has also expanded bursaries, technical training programmes, and skill acquisition centres. Empowerment grants and monthly stipends for vulnerable groups now reach tens of thousands of beneficiaries statewide.

No community or citizen is being left behind in Delta’s development journey.

Promoting Peace and Inclusive Governance

Sustainable growth requires peace. Governor Oborevwori’s administration has actively engaged traditional rulers, youth groups, and community stakeholders to maintain unity and stability across the state.

Accountability is a cornerstone of his leadership — with strict measures against underperforming officials and erring staff. His push for inclusion has expanded development to previously marginalized communities, with projects scattered across the three senatorial zones, transforming Delta into a sprawling construction hub.

Recognition and National Credibility

Governor Oborevwori’s achievements have drawn nationwide recognition. He was named Governor of the Year 2024 by several major media organizations — including ThisDay Newspapers/Arise TV Group, Vanguard Newspapers, Silverbird Group, The Sun Newspapers, and News Telegraph.

In 2025, the Democracy Heroes Award named him The Most Prolific Governor of the Year.

Commendations from elder statesmen and civic leaders further validate his clarity of purpose and demonstrable impact.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Despite the strong performance, Governor Oborevwori acknowledges that challenges remain. He is committed to sustaining the quality of ongoing projects, accelerating job creation, boosting rural economies, and strengthening transparency and citizen engagement.

A notable highlight is his bold intervention in federal road repairs. Only recently, he flagged off the construction of the Benin–Sapele Road, a federal road that directly affects Delta residents.

Conclusion

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has proven that purpose-driven governance delivers results. Delta State’s transformation under his leadership is clear, measurable, and resilient. With Governor Sheriff, M.O.R.E. is truly assured.

Dr. Emmanuel Ashikodi
Concerned Professionals For Good Governance (A Good Governance Advocacy Group)


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In the wake of the United States’ Allegation of Christian Genocide and the Designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern”, Your Excellency, Sir, there is an urgent need to convene Council of State meeting to address the matter.

May peace, wisdom and divine guidance continue to be upon you as you steer the affairs of our great nation at this critical moment in history.

I humbly write this open letter, Your Excellency, not out of disregard for established channels of communication, but out of necessity and duty.

“Convening the Council of State will project confidence to both domestic and international observers – a clear demonstration that Nigeria’s leadership is united, alert and proactive in defending its sovereignty.”

My current position and limited access to the Presidency make it difficult for me to reach you directly. However, the gravity of recent international developments compel me, as a legal practitioner and public servant deeply committed to Nigeria’s sovereignty and unity, to raise this urgent matter through this open medium.

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The Urgent Context

Your Excellency, the recent action of the United States Government – designating Nigeria a “country of particular concern” (CPC) over alleged religious persecution, coupled with open statements from some US officials and political figures hinting at possible sanctions and even military intervention – has sent shockwaves through the diplomatic, legal and security corridors of our dear nation.

These allegations of a so-called “Christian Genocide” in Nigeria are extremely grave. Whether rooted in misinformation, incomplete data or misrepresentation of our complex internal security realities, they carry the potential to damage our sovereignty, national image and international standing.

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Why the Council of State Needs to Be Convened

The Nigerian Council of State, as established under Section 153 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), exists precisely to advise the President on matters of national importance. The present crisis undoubtedly falls within this purview.

“A Council session will enable the Federal Government to coordinate a well-grounded diplomatic and legal response to the US designation, including the preparation of a verifiable data on religious freedom, human rights and counterterrorism efforts in Nigeria.”

I most humbly urge Your Excellency to summon an emergency session of the Council of State for the following reasons:

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1. To Defend National Sovereignty and Unity

The mention of possible foreign military action constitutes a direct challenge to Nigeria’s sovereignty. Bringing together former Heads of State, serving State Governors, the Chief Justice and other constitutional members will send a powerful message of national unity – that Nigerians, regardless of region, religion or political persuasion, stand together in defence of our territorial integrity and constitutional order.

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2. To Formulate a Coherent Diplomatic Response

A Council session will enable the Federal Government to coordinate a well-grounded diplomatic and legal response to the US designation, including the preparation of verifiable data on religious freedom, human rights and counterterrorism efforts in Nigeria.

“By convening the Council of State now, Your Excellency, you will not only reaffirm our democratic institutions but also strengthen your administration’s legacy as a bridge-builder in turbulent times.”

It will also provide an opportunity to design a proactive engagement strategy with Washington, United Nations, ECOWAS and African Union.

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3. To Reassess Domestic Security and Humanitarian Realities

While refuting exaggerated claims, we must also seize this opportunity to reassess our internal security operations. The Council can review updated reports from the military, police and intelligence agencies; examine patterns of violence in affected regions and recommend comprehensive measures to prevent further civilian casualties – Christian and Muslim alike.

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4. To Reinforce National Cohesion and Prevent Religious Polarization

The allegation of a “Christian Genocide” risks inflaming sectarian tensions within Nigeria. An open, unified communication strategy emanating from the Council of State – representing all regions and faiths – will help dispel fear, correct misinformation and prevent opportunistic elements from exploiting religious sentiments.

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5. To Address Legal and International Risks

As a lawyer, I must respectfully emphasize that any talk of foreign military intervention without Nigeria’s consent violates the United Nations Charter and International Law. Nevertheless, the threat alone can have destabilizing diplomatic and economic consequences. The Council of State can thus deliberate on the appropriate legal, diplomatic and political instruments to safeguard Nigeria’s interest under the International Law.

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6. Economic and Reputational Considerations

The CPC designation, if left unaddressed, could discourage foreign investment, strain bilateral relations and lead to sanctions that affect development aid and security cooperation. Convening the Council of State will project confidence to both domestic and international observers – a clear demonstration that Nigeria’s leadership is united, alert and proactive in defending its sovereignty.

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A Call For Strategic Statesmanship

Your Excellency, Nigeria has weathered many storms – from civil war to insurgency to international pressure – and has always emerged stronger through wise, inclusive and timely leadership.

By convening the Council of State now, you will not only reaffirm our democratic institutions but also strengthen your administration’s legacy as a bridge-builder in turbulent times.

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Conclusion

Mr. President, Sir, I trust that you will receive this letter in the spirit of patriotism and constructive counsel in which it is offered. History will remember that at a moment of heightened international tension, the Nigerian President listened to reasoned advice and rallied the nation’s leaders – past and present – to speak with one voice for unity, justice and peace.

May God Almighty continue to guide Your Excellency with wisdom and courage as you lead our nation forward.

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Respectfully submitted,
Barrister Aminu Hussaini
Special Adviser to the Executive Governor of Kano State on Justice/Constitutional Matters
Kano, Nigeria
📧 aminuhussaini173@gmail.com

Dated: November 7, 2025

Abuja, Nigeria — Former Kaduna Central Senator and human rights activist Shehu Sani has issued a strong rebuttal to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s remarks on Nigeria, accusing him of relying on “anarchists and propagandists” who deliberately distort the country’s security situation for political ends.

In an interview with the Washington Post, Sani said Trump had been “misinformed and misled by anarchists and propagandists” spreading half-truths about Nigeria’s war against terrorism and internal security challenges.

“Trump’s views about Nigeria and its leadership were shaped by people who thrive in chaos and division,” Sani stated. “They present a one-sided picture of insecurity and ignore the courage and resilience of Nigerians confronting terrorism daily.”

The former senator, who served in the 8th National Assembly and is known for his outspoken activism, acknowledged that while Nigeria continues to face grave threats from insurgents, bandits, and extremist groups, the country remains steadfast in its determination to restore peace.

“Nigeria will defeat terrorism. It may take time and sacrifice, but the people have refused to surrender to fear,” Sani said. “Our diversity and democracy remain stronger than the hate and violence of extremists.”

He called on the international community, particularly the United States, to adopt a more balanced and fact-based approach in assessing Nigeria’s internal challenges. According to Sani, foreign leaders should focus on supporting Nigeria through intelligence sharing, humanitarian aid, and fair diplomacy, rather than amplifying politically motivated narratives.

“Western countries must not allow bias or misinformation to shape their policy towards Africa,” he cautioned. “The weaponization of falsehoods against nations like Nigeria only fuels division and weakens the fight against terror.”

Sani further stressed that Nigeria’s security battle cannot be won through military means alone. He advocated for a comprehensive approach that tackles the root causes of extremism — including poverty, unemployment, and corruption.

“The fight against terrorism requires both force and fairness,” he explained. “Without justice and inclusion, we risk perpetuating the same cycle of violence we seek to end.”

The interview comes amid heightened global scrutiny of Nigeria’s human rights record and its ongoing war against terror groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP). Several recent foreign commentaries — including those from U.S. and European analysts — have accused the Nigerian government of mishandling security crises and ignoring civilian suffering.

Sani, however, warned that outsiders often overlook local resilience and reform efforts while magnifying negative narratives. He described such portrayals as harmful to Nigeria’s democratic image and counterproductive to peacebuilding efforts.

“Nigeria’s story should be told by Nigerians, not by those who profit from its pain,” he declared.

The former senator concluded by expressing optimism that, despite current hardships, Nigeria’s unity, diversity, and democratic values would ultimately triumph over extremism and misinformation.

The Forum for Growth and Development of Nigeria (FGDN) has urged the European Union (EU), the United Kingdom (UK), the People’s Republic of China, and Canada to impose visa restrictions on individuals engaging in what it described as “coordinated social media attacks” against the organization and its leadership.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Dr. Adams Shaiza Musa, and made available to journalists in Kaduna, the group expressed deep concern over what it termed an increasing wave of “malicious and unhealthy” online campaigns targeted at both local and international organizations.

According to the statement, FGDN—known for its advocacy for national unity, good governance, and youth empowerment—said it has recently noticed some “unwarranted and orchestrated online assaults” aimed at discrediting international organizations.

“We are disturbed by the level of hate speech and false narratives being peddled on social media against several organizations. These attacks are not only defamatory, but also capable of inciting divisions and discouraging civic engagement between patriotic Nigerians and international communities,” the statement read.

While reaffirming support for the constitutional right to freedom of expression, the group stressed that such freedom must be exercised responsibly and within the bounds of truth and decency. It warned that the abuse of digital platforms to spread misinformation and launch personal attacks poses a threat to national unity and social cohesion.

“We call on the embassies of the EU member states, China, the United Kingdom, and Canada to take note of individuals who habitually use the internet to malign others. They should be denied visas and international privileges until they desist from such unethical conduct,” FGDN stated.

The group also called on relevant Nigerian agencies, including the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), to strengthen regulatory measures governing online communication in order to curb misinformation and cyberbullying.

However, it reaffirmed FGDN’s commitment to promoting development-oriented dialogue, civic education, and initiatives that foster peace and social progress across Nigeria.

“FGDN remains focused on its mission to contribute positively to national development. We will not support those who seek attention through baseless accusations. Our objective is to unite Nigerians with international communities around ideas that can move the nation forward,” he said.

The statement concluded with an appeal to media practitioners and social commentators to verify information before publishing or sharing it online, urging them to uphold ethics and professionalism in their work.

By Dr. Awwal Abdullahi Aliyu
(Opinion)

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In a nation where economic hardship continues to test the resilience of its people, the Department of State Services (DSS) under the visionary leadership of Director General, Mr. Adeola Oluwafemi Ajayi, has once again demonstrated that true security transcends the barrel of the gun.

The recent announcement of a ₦50,000 one-time cash assistance to 7,774 carefully selected vulnerable Nigerians — ten from each of the 774 local government areas — stands as a landmark achievement in the annals of non-kinetic security operations in Nigeria.

This initiative, totaling approximately ₦388 million, is not merely a welfare gesture; it is a masterstroke in nation-building, social inclusion, and sustainable peace.

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A People-Centered Security Approach

The Nineteen Seventeen Northern Consensus Movement for Peace, Unity, Empowerment and Development Initiative (NSNCM) wholeheartedly commends the DSS and its Director General for this people-focused intervention.

By deliberately targeting the poorest of the poor—including widows, the elderly, persons with disabilities, the unemployed, and those burdened by medical challenges—the DSS recognizes that hunger, despair, and exclusion are fertile grounds for unrest, radicalization, and criminality.

In providing direct financial relief, the DSS is not only alleviating immediate suffering but also fortifying the social fabric of our beloved nation.

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Transparency and Community Engagement

The selection process itself deserves special praise. Unlike many top-down interventions that often bypass the most deserving, the DSS adopted a grassroots, consultative approach.

Security heads, traditional rulers, religious leaders, local government officials, and community stakeholders were all involved in identifying beneficiaries. This ensured transparency, fairness, and cultural relevance.

When an 80-year-old grandfather like Pa Segun in the Southwest receives his ₦50,000 with tears of gratitude, it is not just money changing hands—it is dignity being restored, hope rekindled, and loyalty to the state reaffirmed.

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Real Impact, Real Transformation

For the beneficiaries, this ₦50,000 is far more than a cash transfer—it is a lifeline with transformative potential.

In rural communities where daily income barely exceeds ₦500, this sum can cover three months of basic food needs for a family of five.

A widow in Sokoto can now buy grains, cooking oil, and medicine without begging.

An unemployed youth in Ebonyi can start a small poultry or vegetable business.

A disabled artisan in Kano can purchase new tools and resume his trade.

These are not abstract possibilities—they are real pathways out of poverty, made possible by the DSS’s foresight and compassion.

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Aligning with Global Peacebuilding Standards

Moreover, this initiative aligns perfectly with global best practices in countering violent extremism (CVE).

Research from the United Nations and the Institute for Economics and Peace consistently shows that economic empowerment reduces vulnerability to recruitment by criminal or terrorist groups.

When citizens feel seen, supported, and valued by state institutions, they become defenders of peace rather than participants in disorder.

Through this initiative, the DSS is building a human security firewall—a foundation for peace that rests on inclusion and empathy.

We particularly applaud the DG’s emphasis on “winning hearts and minds.” This is leadership with vision and compassion.

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A Call for Emulation

At a time when many security agencies are criticized for heavy-handed approaches, Mr. Ajayi has shown that strength also lies in compassion.

By investing nearly ₦400 million into direct citizen support, the DSS is setting a powerful example for other agencies and tiers of government.

We call on state governors, local government chairmen, and federal ministries to emulate this model.

Imagine the national impact if every security outfit in Nigeria allocated just 1% of its budget to similar empowerment programs.

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The Way Forward

As National President of NSNCM, I urge the DSS to sustain and expand this initiative. Future phases could include:

Skills training and micro-credit programs,

Digital literacy and entrepreneurship development, and

Partnerships with civil society to track outcomes and share success stories.

Such steps will ensure long-term self-reliance and enhance transparency.

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Conclusion

The DSS ₦50,000 Cash Assistance Program is, without doubt, a beacon of hope in Nigeria’s development journey.

It proves that security is not just about intelligence and enforcement, but about justice, equity, and human dignity.

On behalf of the Nineteen Seventeen Northern Consensus Movement for Peace, Unity, Empowerment and Development Initiative (NSNCM), I extend our deepest gratitude to Director General Adeola Ajayi and the entire DSS family.

May this initiative inspire a new era of inclusive governance where no Nigerian is left behind.

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About the Author:
Dr. Awwal Abdullahi Aliyu, Sarkin Yakin Kanya Babba, is the National President of the Nineteen Seventeen Northern Consensus Movement for Peace, Unity, Empowerment and Development Initiative (NSNCM) — a coalition advocating for peacebuilding, empowerment, and inclusive national development.

By Aminu Hussaini Sagagi

“The U.S’s accusation of alleged “Christian Genocide” against Nigeria with a threat of possible military action against the country would constitute a breach of International Law.
Analysts warn that, without recourse to any United Nation’s declaration, however noble the US unilateral intervention might seem within the country’s public policy perspective, the “action” smacks of violation of the very principles that sustain the global order.
Barrister Aminu Hussain Sagagi in this article highlights why Kano State Government align with the Federal Government stand, examining how the US’s threat against Nigeria would further escalate strain relationship and the resultant effect may lead Nigeria to embrace alternative global partners such as China or Russia – a shift that could reshape the regional alliances”.

In a move that has sent ripples through diplomatic circles across Africa, U.S. President Donald J. Trump has designated Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) under U.S. religious-freedom laws, alleging a “genocide of Christians.” He also warned of possible U.S. military action, a statement that has sparked intense debate over international law, sovereignty and the limits of moral intervention in global affairs.
Trump, speaking via his Truth Social platform, accused Nigeria’s leadership of “turning a blind eye” to the alleged killings of Christians, calling the situation “an existential threat to Christianity.” The U.S. Department of State confirmed that the designation was made under the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998, which enables sanctions against nations found to be violating religious freedom in a “systematic and egregious” manner.

The Federal Government of Nigeria, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has rejected both the allegations and the label, describing them as “misinformed and unfounded.” Officials insist that Nigeria remains committed to protecting citizens of all faiths and that the violence ravaging parts of the country stems from terrorism, banditry and resource competition, not state-sponsored religious persecution.

Amid the diplomatic storm, the Kano State Government, led by His Excellency, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has declared its full solidarity with the Federal Government and the People of Nigeria. In a statement issued in Kano, Governor Yusuf reaffirmed the State’s unwavering loyalty to the Nigerian federation and condemned attempts to portray the nation as a site of religious genocide. “Nigeria is a united and resilient country where Christians and Muslims have lived together for generations,” the statement read. “Kano stands firmly with the Federal Government in defending our sovereignty, our diversity and our dignity in the comity of nations.”
While the CPC designation itself is primarily diplomatic, Trump’s accompanying threat of deploying U.S. forces has raised serious legal questions. Under Article 2(4) of the United Nations Charter, member States are prohibited from using or threatening force against the territorial integrity of another Member State unless in self-defence or with UN Security Council authorization. Without Nigeria’s consent, analysts warn, any U.S. military action would constitute a breach of International Law.
Nigeria is not a failed State; any unilateral intervention, however noble it may seem within the public policy perspective of the USA or Europe, would violate the very principles that sustain the global order.

The use of the term genocide is particularly contentious. Under the Genocide Convention of 1948, genocide requires proof of intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnic or religious group. Human-rights organizations acknowledge that Nigeria faces severe insecurity – including attacks by Boko Haram, ISWAP and armed militias – but warn against oversimplifying the conflict as one of religion.
The violence affects Muslims and Christians alike. It’s driven by a noxious mix of poverty, climate stress, extremism and weak governance – not by any single religious agenda.

The U.S. move risks straining one of its most strategic relationships in Africa. Nigeria is a key partner in counterterrorism, regional stability and economic development. The Nigerian Senate has called for calm diplomacy, urging engagement with Washington. The African Union has also expressed concern, warning that “unilateral actions under humanitarian pretexts” could undermine African sovereignty and set troubling precedents.
Should relations deteriorate further, experts warn, Nigeria could pivot toward alternative global partners such as China or Russia – a shift that could reshape regional alliances.
Trump’s rhetoric has revived the age-old debate about the intersection of morality and power in international relations. Proponents say Washington is right to speak out against persecution, while critics argue that selective interventions erode credibility and risk weaponing human rights.
“Religious freedom is an important value,” says Dr. Samuel Adebayo, a Nigerian diplomat and governance scholar. “But turning moral advocacy into a pretext for coercion blurs the line between protection and interference.”

For now, Nigeria’s leadership – buoyed by broad domestic support, including that of Kano State and other subnational governments – appears united in rejecting the U.S. narrative. While sanctions or diplomatic restrictions could follow, actual military action remains unlikely and legally indefensible without UN approval or Nigerian consent.
As Nigeria continues to confront terrorism, inequality and communal conflicts, its leaders insist that reform and reconciliation must come from within – not through threats from abroad. The unfolding episode, analysts say, will test not just Nigeria’s resilience, but also the world’s commitment to the delicate balance between sovereignty and global conscience.

Barrister Aminu Hussaini is a Special Adviser on Justice/Constitutional Matters to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf

Adonma Agebe

– The Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF) has expressed serious concern over the recent designation of Nigeria by United States President Donald Trump as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) due to alleged widespread persecution of Christians, even as it opposed any form of foreign military intervention in the country.

By Ebenezer Adam

In a communiqué issued at the end of its National Caucus meeting held on Saturday, November 2, 2025, the Forum described Trump’s designation as a “wake-up call” to the Federal Government to act decisively in halting what it called “the ongoing mayhem and killings” across the country.

The meeting, which brought together leaders of the four major socio-cultural and political blocs—Afenifere, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the Middle Belt Forum, and PANDEF—was convened to discuss matters of urgent national importance, particularly the US designation, insecurity, and the political direction of Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to the communiqué signed by HRM Oba Oladipo Olaitan, Leader of Afenifere; Dr. Bitrus Pogu, President of the Middle Belt Forum; Senator John Azuta-Mbata, President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide; and H.E. Ambassador Godknows Igali, National Chairman of PANDEF, the Forum noted that while Nigeria must reject external interference, it must equally confront internal threats that have destroyed lives and displaced communities.

“The SMBLF notes with very serious concern the designation by the US President Donald Trump of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern over religious persecution against Christians,” the communiqué stated.

The leaders affirmed their opposition to any “unsolicited foreign military intervention in Nigeria over any matter.” However, they described the CPC designation as a serious warning to the authorities in Abuja to take full responsibility for restoring order, justice, and equity in the handling of national security.

“We consider the designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern a wake-up call to the Federal Government to pursue with a sense of urgency and responsibility halting the ongoing mayhem and killings,” the communiqué read.

The Forum specifically called on the government to confront and dismantle the various militias, killer herdsmen, and Islamist terrorist groups that have been blamed for massacres and land seizures in parts of the country. It urged the administration to “restore occupied lands to their rightful owners of all faiths and ethnic nationalities,” naming Benue, Plateau, Southern Kaduna, Taraba, Gombe, Southern Borno, and Southern Kebbi as areas most affected by the violence.

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Call for Security Sector Reforms

While acknowledging the recent reshuffling of the nation’s Service Chiefs, the SMBLF said the move was welcome but insufficient. The Forum called on the President to extend the reform process to other key defence and security institutions, particularly the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Minister of Defence, and the Minister of State for Defence.

According to the Forum, these strategic positions “are presently occupied by persons from one section of the country,” a situation that does not reflect Nigeria’s ethnic and regional diversity.

“This will not only ensure a comprehensive overhaul of the national defence architecture but also reflect the diversity of the country,” the communiqué declared.

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Nnamdi Kanu’s Continued Detention

On the issue of detained IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, the SMBLF reaffirmed its commitment to Nigeria’s unity but criticized what it described as the excessive military response by previous administrations to peaceful agitations.

“SMBLF restates its commitment to the unity and continued coexistence of the Nigerian Federation wherein every citizen and constituent ethnic nationality will be equally respected and have genuine sense of belonging,” the statement read.

The Forum recalled that Kanu’s agitation began peacefully but was “radicalised by ill-advised and excessive military responses codenamed operations ‘Crocodile Smile’ and ‘Python Dance’ by the erstwhile Buhari administration.” These military campaigns, the group argued, forced Kanu into exile, leading to his arrest in Kenya, rendition to Nigeria in 2021, and ongoing prosecution since then.

Without prejudice to his trial, the Forum urged the current President to adopt a more conciliatory and statesmanlike approach to the issue by directing the Attorney-General of the Federation to activate constitutional mechanisms for Kanu’s release.

“The release of Nnamdi Kanu will be a salutary directive in the interest of the most needed national rehabilitation and peace,” the communiqué emphasized.

The leaders stressed that resolving the Kanu question would go a long way in reducing ethnic tension and rebuilding trust in the Nigerian state, especially among the Igbo people of the Southeast who feel politically and economically marginalized.

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2027 Presidential Election

Turning to the political horizon, the SMBLF reiterated its earlier resolution from 2021 that the presidency should rotate to the South, insisting that the principle of power rotation must continue into the 2027 elections to ensure fairness, equity, and stability.

“SMBLF recalled its decision in 2021 that the President of Nigeria in the 2023 election should be from the Southern part of the country in demonstration of our commitment to restructuring and national stability,” the communiqué stated.

The Forum added that the same principle should guide the 2027 election, describing rotational presidency as “an established national political culture” that helps preserve unity in a multi-ethnic federation like Nigeria.

“The decision should remain applicable to the 2027 Presidential Election for the same reasons,” it said, commending political parties that have already aligned with this zoning arrangement.

The leaders urged all political actors to respect the spirit of inclusion by recognizing that equitable power-sharing among the country’s diverse regions was vital for sustaining democracy and peace.

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A Call for National Renewal

In conclusion, the SMBLF emphasized that the Federal Government must rise above political divisions and religious sentiments to address Nigeria’s growing insecurity, economic hardship, and the erosion of trust between its various ethnic groups.

The Forum urged President Tinubu to take Trump’s CPC designation not as an insult but as a challenge to demonstrate leadership by tackling the root causes of Nigeria’s violent conflicts—impunity, religious extremism, and institutional bias.

It also encouraged citizens to reject narratives of hate and division, calling instead for a “national reawakening” where every Nigerian feels protected and represented regardless of faith or ethnicity.

The communiqué was signed and dated this 2nd day of November 2025 by HRM Oba Oladipo Olaitan (Afenifere), Dr. Bitrus Pogu (Middle Belt Forum), Senator John Azuta-Mbata (Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide), and H.E. Ambassador Godknows Igali (PANDEF).

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