Why U.S. Sanctions on Nigeria Are Unlikely Despite Trump’s Threat – Bwala

Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Media and Policy Communication, Mr. Daniel Bwala, has dismissed fears that the United States may impose sanctions on Nigeria following recent threats by President Donald Trump.

Speaking on Prime Time, an Arise Television programme monitored yesterday, Bwala explained that the U.S. government would tread cautiously because such sanctions would ultimately hurt ordinary Nigerians rather than the political class.

His remarks come after President Trump warned that he had directed the U.S. Defence Department to prepare for possible military action in Nigeria if the government “continues to allow the killing of Christians.”

Trump had earlier designated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) over alleged persecution and targeted killings of Christians in parts of the country.

But reacting, Bwala maintained that Nigeria’s leadership had taken note of Trump’s concerns and was already taking steps to address them.

“If sanctions are imposed on Nigerians, it is the people who will bear the brunt,” he said. “President Trump doesn’t hold grudges; he often speaks his mind, and afterward, things return to normal. The Nigerian government clearly understands the message and is responding accordingly. We will begin to see results soon.”

Bwala also urged Nigerians to remain calm, stressing that the Tinubu administration was engaging diplomatic channels to prevent any escalation.

It was gathered that the presidency is also working on a high-level diplomatic meeting between President Tinubu and President Trump to strengthen bilateral ties and ease tensions arising from the latest comments.