AU Rejects Trump’s Threat, Urges Dialogue and Respect for Nigeria’s Sovereignty
The African Union (AU) has firmly rejected recent remarks attributed to former U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting possible American military action against Nigeria over alleged attacks on Christians, calling instead for diplomatic dialogue and mutual respect.
In a strongly worded statement released on Friday via its official X (formerly Twitter) account, the African Union Commission (AUC) reaffirmed its unwavering support for Nigeria’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and commitment to religious freedom and the rule of law.
The Federal Republic of Nigeria is a longstanding and valued member state of the African Union, playing a key role in regional stability, counter-terrorism, peacekeeping initiatives, and continental integration,” the AUC stated.
The continental body cautioned against rhetoric that could inflame tensions or destabilize the region, stressing that “Africa’s security challenges require cooperation and dialogue, not threats or unilateral interventions.”
The AU’s position follows widespread reactions across Africa to Trump’s recent comments, in which he accused the Nigerian government of turning a blind eye to “mass killings of Christians” and hinted that the U.S. might be compelled to act if the situation continued. The remarks have triggered diplomatic unease and sharp criticism from Nigerian officials, who described them as “reckless and misleading.”
The AUC reiterated that the fight against terrorism and extremism in Africa is a shared continental responsibility, emphasizing that “external actors must support, not undermine, the collective efforts of African nations.”
Observers say the AU’s intervention signals growing continental concern about foreign interference under the pretext of humanitarian intervention.
The Commission urged the United States and Nigeria to engage through established diplomatic channels, maintaining that “constructive dialogue and partnership remain the only viable path to peace and mutual understanding.”
As of press time, Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed the AU’s statement, noting that it “reflects the collective will of Africa to stand for sovereignty, peace, and self-determination.”
The AU’s reaffirmation comes amid heightened diplomatic discussions in Abuja, where the government continues to balance domestic security challenges with international pressure and public anxiety over the implications of Washington’s increasingly aggressive tone.
