Trump’s CPC designation, military threat: Tinubu saw it coming, acted ahead – Presidency

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

The Presidency has disclosed that President Bola Tinubu anticipated the diplomatic tensions arising from the United States’ accusations of Christian persecution in Nigeria and took preemptive measures.

This follows US President Donald Trump’s recent warning of potential military consequences for Nigeria, shortly after labelling the country a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) due to alleged persecution of Christians.

Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, via his verified X handle @aonanuga65 said President Tinubu responded ahead of Trump’s warning by highlighting his earlier restructuring of Nigeria’s military and his clear instructions to the newly appointed service chiefs.

Onanuga emphasised that the President had already foreseen the challenges posed by the US administration.

Onanuga noted, “President Bola Tinubu was well ahead of the orchestrated game unfolding in America as he told the new service chiefs on Thursday what Nigerians expect of them. No more excuses, he said. Nigerians want results.”

He quoted the President’s firm message to the military leadership given prior to Trump’s statements, underscoring Nigeria’s resolve against both insecurity and external interference.

Tinubu said: “Security threats are constantly evolving, constantly mutating. Of grave concern to our administration is the recent emergence of new armed groups in the North-Central, North-West, and parts of the South. We must not allow these new threats to fester. We must be decisive and proactive. Let us smash the new snakes right in the head.

“Nigerians expect results, not excuses… Let’s stay ahead of those who seek to threaten our peace. Let us deploy technology where necessary.

“We cannot allow the crisis that began in 2009 to persist any longer. I promise to provide all the support you need to get the job done.”

The Presidency’s response comes amid escalating diplomatic tensions after the US CPC designation, which Nigerian officials have criticised as inaccurate and politically motivated. Trump’s readiness to “act with force if necessary” on religious intolerance heightened concerns among Nigerian leaders and civil society, who view the move as unjustified interference.

The Tinubu administration maintains that Nigeria guarantees religious freedom and is committed to addressing security challenges impartially across all regions and faith groups.