Trump’s Threat Is a Wake-Up Call for Nigeria - Bishop Kukah

Trump’s Threat Is a Wake-Up Call for Nigeria – Bishop Kukah

Bishop Matthew Kukah, Catholic Archbishop of Sokoto Diocese, has described U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent threat of military action against Nigeria over alleged persecution of Christians as a sobering wake-up call for the country’s leadership.

Trump had accused Nigerian authorities of enabling systematic persecution and mass killings of Christians, subsequently designating Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern.” He warned of potential measures, including cutting U.S. aid and even military intervention to “save Christians” in the country.

President Bola Tinubu swiftly rejected the allegations, reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to religious freedom and constitutional democracy. Speaking ahead of the Federal Executive Council meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday, Tinubu stated, “Despite the political headwinds and the fear of our people, we will continue to engage with partners… We will defeat terrorism in this country.”

He added that the government remains focused on building a united, inclusive, and resilient Nigeria under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Reacting to the controversy, Bishop Kukah, speaking at the 60th birthday celebration of journalist Reuben Abati and the launch of his new books in Lagos, said Nigeria must not dismiss Trump’s remarks lightly. He argued that the U.S. president’s comments reflect deeper issues within Nigeria’s governance and moral fabric.

“Trump is not the disease; he is a symptom of the disease in our country,” Kukah said. “We are chaotic, quarrelsome, and angry. We lack the institutional and moral foundation to build a stable society. Whether it’s Trump or someone else delivering this jab, it’s time for Nigeria to wake up.”

He used a metaphor to emphasize the urgency of reform: “It doesn’t matter if the snake is dead or who killed it, what matters is that we must act.”

Kukah also lamented Nigeria’s lack of national monuments and tourist destinations, saying it reflects a deeper identity crisis. “If someone visits Nigeria today, where would I take them? In other countries, you can visit the president’s residence. In Nigeria, you can’t even see where the president is,” he said.

Calling for a national reset, Kukah urged Nigerians to reflect on the country’s leadership and legacy. “We need to reload, because either we didn’t fire our shot, or the target moved. Who are the Nigerian statesmen whose names resonate across the country without contradiction?”

His remarks underscored a broader call for introspection, unity, and a renewed commitment to national values.