Nigerian leaders and groups have responded to recent comments and threats from US President Donald Trump targeting Nigeria. Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau called for an apology, while Christian clerics urged calm. The National Orientation Agency emphasized unity against external threats.
On November 8, 2025, several Nigerian figures reacted to US President Donald Trump's recent statements, which included labeling Nigeria negatively and issuing threats against the country. The comments, described in various reports as blurring lines between truth and falsehood, prompted calls for patriotic responses amid concerns over national sovereignty.
Deputy Senate President Senator Jibrin Barau directly addressed Trump, urging him to withdraw the threat and issue an apology to Nigeria. In a statement, Barau highlighted the need for respectful international relations.
Prominent Christian clerics, responding to the remarks, called for calm and understanding. They clarified that Nigerians recognize Trump did not speak as the head of any church, emphasizing that his words should not be misinterpreted in a religious context.
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) urged Nigerians to unite against external threats to the nation's sovereignty. This came as a group criticized Trump's decision on Nigeria, particularly regarding genocide claims, as based on 'jaundiced, obtrusive data.'
An opinion piece in Daily Trust described the situation as the 'Trump challenge,' nonplussed by Trump's labeling of Nigeria as a 'Country of'—an apparent reference to derogatory remarks—and called for more patriotic voices to counter misinformation.
These responses reflect a broader Nigerian pushback against perceived external interference, focusing on diplomacy and national unity without escalating tensions.
