Trump’s Threat: Gov Adeleke Calls for Renewed US–Nigeria Dialogue

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has urged the Federal Government and the United States to pursue dialogue and cooperation rather than confrontation, following recent remarks by former U.S. President Donald Trump threatening possible security action against Nigeria.

In a statement issued on Monday by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Governor Adeleke called for “renewed diplomatic engagement” between both nations, noting that Nigeria and the U.S. share a long history of partnership that should be strengthened to tackle emerging security threats.

“I appeal to the Presidency of the United States of America to support Nigeria to fully implement the recently developed National Security Strategy. The new strategy is comprehensive and capable of taking on the monster of banditry and terroristic killings in many parts of the country,” the governor said.

Adeleke extended condolences to families of victims of insecurity across Northern Nigeria, describing the situation as a national tragedy that requires international cooperation to resolve.

According to him, the U.S. position should serve as “a wake-up call to rigorously implement new security measures and forceful counter-terrorism actions in partnership with diplomatic allies.”

He emphasized that Nigeria needs global support, particularly from the U.S., to overcome the devastating effects of terrorism and armed violence.

“Nigeria suffers from unfortunate killings across Northern Nigeria which have claimed many innocent lives. A high-powered engagement at the presidential level will help the American government understand the ongoing security operations, successes, and challenges Nigeria is facing in the fight against terrorism,” he added.

Adeleke further appealed for peaceful dialogue between Abuja and Washington, stressing that “diplomacy, not military intervention, holds the key to sustainable peace.”

He also commended President Bola Tinubu for his efforts to ease diplomatic tensions and address legitimate concerns raised by Western allies, including the United States.

“This is the time to unite as a nation to support the national leadership in frontally addressing internal and external threats for the protection of our citizens,” the governor concluded.