Why the US Is Unlikely to Sanction Nigeria Despite Trump’s Christian Genocide Warning —Presidency

The Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, has shed light on why the United States is unlikely to impose sanctions on Nigeria despite recent threats from President Donald Trump over claims of a Christian genocide in the country.

Speaking on Arise Television’s *Prime Time* programme on Monday, Bwala said that sanctions would primarily affect ordinary Nigerians rather than government officials. His comments followed Trump’s directive for the US Department of Defense to prepare for potential military action if Nigeria “continues to allow the killing of Christians.” The US president had also designated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” in response to allegations of widespread persecution of Christians.

Bwala emphasized that the US would be cautious in taking such measures, noting that sanctions often hit the general population hardest. “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,” he said.

He further stated that the Nigerian government has acknowledged the concerns raised by Trump and is taking steps to address the issues. “The Nigerian government has clearly understood Trump’s message and is addressing it. We will begin to see results soon,” Bwala added.