The Presidency has expressed confidence that President Bola Tinubu will soon hold a meeting with his United States counterpart, Donald Trump.
Special Adviser to the President on Media and Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, said this during an interview on monday where he indicated that such a meeting is being arranged, following Trump’s recent threat of possible military action against Nigeria over allegations of Christian genocide.
Bwala said the proposed meeting could take place “either at the White House or the State House”, stressing that diplomatic engagements require careful handling.
“It could happen at any time. In diplomacy, protocol is key. When you’re building something, it must be preserved and protected,” he said.
“We will not be pressured into revealing the stage of discussions because, in diplomacy, there must be respect for protocol.”
Bwala also addressed concerns over rumours of potential U.S. sanctions on Nigeria, saying such measures would harm ordinary citizens rather than the government.
His comment followed Trump’s claim that he had directed the U.S. Defence Department to prepare for possible military action in Nigeria if the killings of Christians persist.
The U.S. President had earlier designated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern over alleged religious persecution.
According to Bwala, “If sanctions are imposed on Nigerians, it is the people who will bear the brunt. Trump doesn’t hold grudges; he says what he wants to say, and afterwards, things return to normal.
“The Nigerian government has clearly understood Trump’s message and is addressing it. We will begin to see results soon.”