TRUMP’S TREATMENT OF NIGERIA — THE IMPLICATIONS FOR THE WORLD, THE FOREIGN POLICY OPPORTUNITIES FOR NIGERIA, AND WHAT THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT MUST DO TO GET AHEAD.

TRUMP’S TREATMENT OF NIGERIA — THE IMPLICATIONS FOR THE WORLD, THE FOREIGN POLICY OPPORTUNITIES FOR NIGERIA, AND WHAT THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT MUST DO TO GET AHEAD.

By Olupitan B.Adebayo( Msc Finance(Unilag) ,ACIPM,MIPMA,MICA, MCIA.)

Introduction

The relationship between the United States and Nigeria is entering a potentially fraught phase. Under Donald Trump’s administration, several hard-edged policy moves toward Nigeria have been announced—tariffs on Nigerian exports, designation of Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” over religious-freedom issues, threats of military intervention, and more restrictive visa policies. These constitute what might be called “Trump’s threats to Nigeria” (offers and threats alike). Understanding the implications globally, the opportunities this presents for Nigeria’s foreign policy, and what Nigeria’s federal government must do to stay ahead is critical.

What exactly is happening?

Here are key actions and statements affecting Nigeria:

In April 2025 the U.S. imposed a 14 % tariff on Nigerian exports, citing trade imbalance. 

In August 2025, the U.S. reportedly announced even higher tariffs (e.g., 15 %) on imports from Nigeria and other African countries as part of a “reciprocal trade adjustment”. 

In November 2025 Trump threatened to cut off all U.S. aid to Nigeria and directed the U.S. military (via the “Department of War/Defence”) to prepare for possible intervention, over alleged killings of Christians in Nigeria. 

Nigeria responded by rejecting the depiction of religious intolerance, while also signalling openness to U.S. assistance as long as Nigeria’s sovereignty is respected. 

Nigeria is attempting to engage diplomatically with the U.S. to deepen cooperation in trade, security, energy and other areas. 

These elements—tariffs, military threat, aid suspension risk, and trade/​security overtures—form a complex set of “threats” from the U.S. to Nigeria: on one hand sanctions and pressure; on the other offers of partnership and investment.

The global implications

1. For U.S.–Africa relations

The U.S. under Trump appears to be re-shaping how it deals with Africa: more transactional, more conditional (e.g., religious-freedom thresholds, security cooperation), less about long-term development assistance or cooperation for its own sake. This shift means African states like Nigeria must recalibrate expectations of U.S. partnership.

2. For trade and global supply chains

Tariffs on Nigerian exports reduce demand for Nigerian goods in the U.S. market, threatening Nigeria’s foreign-exchange inflows and thereby influencing global commodity flows and investment decisions. Analysts warned that the U.S. tariffs may weaken the naira and reduce oil-export earnings. 

3. For regional security

If U.S. military involvement in Nigeria or the region becomes credible, this has major implications for West African stability, sovereignty of states, regional organisations (e.g., African Union, Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)), and precedent for extra-regional interventions in Africa.

4. For multilateral norms

The designation of Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” for religious-freedom violations and threats of aid suspension raises questions about how human-rights norms, sovereignty, and bilateral relations will interact — signalling that “norms” may be more closely tied to geopolitics and conditionality than before.

5. For Nigeria’s role in Africa

Nigeria has for decades played a leadership role in West Africa and Africa broadly. If Nigeria is placed under pressure by the U.S., it may affect its leadership credibility, its relations with neighbours, and its capacity to act as a regional stabiliser.

*Foreign-policy opportunities in favour of Nigeria*

Despite the threats, there are openings for Nigeria’s foreign policy that can be leveraged:

a) Diversify partnerships

Given the U.S.’ tougher posture, Nigeria can strengthen ties with other major powers (e.g., China, India, EU) and deepen intra-African trade (under the African Continental Free Trade Area “AfCFTA”). Tariff pressure from the U.S. offers an impetus to reduce dependency on single export markets. 

b) Leverage security cooperation

Though there are threats, Nigeria can also use the rhetoric of shared threats (terrorism, extremism) to negotiate better security Partnerships with the U.S. While protecting its sovereignty, Nigeria can secure intelligence, training, equipment and joint operations from the U.S. and other allies. 

c) Export diversification

Tariff threats underline the need for Nigeria to shift away from oil dependence and build non-oil exports that meet global standards, so that it is less vulnerable to external shocks. Nigeria’s trade ministry has stated this is a priority. 

d) Soft-power and leadership

Nigeria can use diplomatic channels to shape African responses to extra-regional intervention and to promote African solutions to African problems. By positioning itself as a voice for African sovereignty and agency, Nigeria can enhance its soft power and leadership role on the continent.

*What the Federal Government must do to get ahead*

For Nigeria’s federal government to navigate these developments proactively, several specific actions are required:

1. Strengthen export competitiveness & diversify

Accelerate non-oil export development: improve quality, traceability, and meet U.S. and global standards so tariffs matter less.

Engage in trade diplomacy: negotiate with the U.S. to mitigate tariff impacts, while exploring new markets.

Invest in value-addition: rather than exporting crude, build refining, manufacturing, and agro-processing to reduce exposure.

2. Deepen strategic diplomacy

React quickly: Nigeria must engage the U.S. diplomatically to clarify positions (e.g., deny or contextualise the allegations regarding religious persecution) and to shape the narrative.

Multilateral channels: Use the African Union, ECOWAS, and other regional groupings to push for coordinated responses and reinforce Nigeria’s leadership role.

Strengthen bilateral ties with other major partners: avoid being over-reliant on U.S. goodwill.

3. Ensure security and respect for human rights

Address the root causes of unrest: terrorism, communal violence, farmers-herders conflict, and religious tensions. The more Nigeria demonstrates effective control and governance, the less leverage external actors have to threaten aid cuts or intervention.

Uphold transparency and accountability: demonstrate both internally and externally that Nigeria is protecting all citizens regardless of religion, to counter perceptions that fuel external threats.

4. Protect sovereignty while managing cooperation

Accept assistance only on terms that respect Nigeria’s territorial integrity and decision-making. Nigeria welcomed U.S. help but insisted sovereignty must be respected. 

Build capacity domestically so that cooperation isn’t one-sided and doesn’t produce dependency.

5. Communicate clearly & proactively

Public diplomacy: Nigeria must clearly communicate its perspective to both domestic and international audiences—explain what is happening on the ground, its efforts to address problems, and its commitment to broader values.

Alert domestic stakeholders: Business, civil society and state governments must be aware of the risks (tariffs, visa restrictions, aid cuts) so they can adjust strategies accordingly.

6. Build resilience to external shocks

Strengthen foreign-exchange reserves, deepen intra-African trade, and reduce dependence on any one export or trading partner.

Develop contingency plans for scenarios like aid reductions, sanctions, or trade disruptions.

*Conclusion*

What may appear at first as mere “treats”—or threats—from President Trump’s U.S. administration toward Nigeria actually carry serious implications. Globally, these moves shift U.S.–Africa dynamics, affect trade flows and security paradigms. For Nigeria, they pose risks but also open opportunities for recalibration of foreign policy, diversification of partnerships, and deeper internal reforms.

If Nigeria’s federal government acts strategically—strengthening exports, deepening diplomatic relations, ensuring internal security and human-rights protections, and building resilience to external shocks—it can not only navigate the current pressures but emerge in a stronger position internationally and domestically.

The game is changing for Nigeria; the question is whether Nigeria will be ahead of the change, or find itself reacting to change.

EKSU Celebrates Ekiti First Lady, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, on Birthday.

EKSU Celebrates Ekiti First Lady, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, on Birthday.

By Olamide Akinwumi 

The Vice-Chancellor of Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti, Prof. Babatola Ayodele, has congratulated the wife of the Ekiti State Governor, Dr (Mrs) Olayemi Oyebanji, on the occasion of her birthday.

Ayodele, who conveyed the goodwill message on behalf of the Governing Council, Senate, management, staff and students of the university, described the First Lady as a woman of substance and a pillar of support for education and community development in the state.

He commended Mrs Oyebanji for her remarkable contributions to the university, particularly her voluntary teaching of students in the Faculty of Education, which he said reflected her passion for learning and service.

According to him, the First Lady’s commitment to the peace, unity and stability of the Ekiti State Government remains exemplary and inspiring.

“Your exemplary leadership, humility and dedication to the development of the education sector have left an enduring impact on our university and Ekiti State in general,” the Vice-Chancellor said.

He prayed for her continued good health, wisdom and many more productive years of service to humanity.

The statement was made available to journalists in Ado Ekiti by the Deputy Registrar and Head, Directorate of Information and Corporate Affairs, Dr Bode Olofinmuagun.

Ojuawo Medical Outreach Lands in Orun-Ekiti.

Ojuawo Medical Outreach Lands in Orun-Ekiti.

In fulfillment of his promise to make healthcare more accessible to his constituents, Hon. (AVM Rtd.) Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi, the Honourable Member representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency I, in partnership with the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (MWAN), Ekiti Chapter, on Friday organized a free medical outreach programme at Olowuro Palace, Orun-Ekiti.

During his address, Hon. Ojuawo emphasized the importance of prioritizing personal health and preventive care.

“As the saying goes, health is wealth. I want everyone to take their health as seriously as they take their daily bread — we cannot survive without it. Regular medical check-ups are essential because prevention is better than cure. Our amiable Governor, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, has ensured that our health centres are renovated and functioning optimally to serve our people. I urge everyone to take advantage of this opportunity. Please don’t wait until you break down; this exercise is meant to open our eyes,” he appealed.

Speaking on behalf of MWAN, Dr. Bolade Dele-Ojo, President of the association’s Ekiti Chapter and coordinator of the outreach, cautioned participants against neglecting their health.

 “Your blood pressure and blood sugar levels must be checked regularly to prevent sudden complications. Eat well, rest adequately, and live a balanced life. As professionals, our concern is more about prevention than cure. Let’s all use this opportunity to know our health status and follow up on any findings discovered here today,” she advised.

Hon. Ojuawo further urged the people of Orun-Ekiti to continue supporting the government of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, stressing that his re-election would allow him to consolidate on the laudable achievements recorded so far.

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

President Tinubu's Aide Extols Ekiti First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, on Her Birthday.

President Tinubu's Aide Extols Ekiti First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, on Her Birthday.

The Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the President on National Assembly Matters, Hon. Ibrahim Olarewaju, has extended heartfelt birthday felicitations to the First Lady of Ekiti State, Her Excellency Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, as she marks another year of impactful service and exemplary leadership.

In a statement released today, Hon. Olarewaju described Dr. Oyebanji as a profound pillar of strength to Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, noting that she combines exceptional brilliance with deep-seated compassion to elevate the lives of the people of Ekiti State, particularly the most vulnerable populations.

“On behalf of my family and the entire team at the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters, I wish a truly remarkable woman, Her Excellency Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, a joyous birthday,” Hon. Olarenwaju stated.

The statement specifically highlighted her outstanding contribution to the education sector, applauding her selfless willingness to give back to society by lecturing pro-bono at not one, but three different universities in the state.

“This singular act of selfless service is a powerful demonstration of her deep-seated belief in human capital development. It underscores her commitment to molding the next generation of leaders by directly transferring knowledge and mentoring students, embodying a rare blend of grace and intellectual brilliance.”

Furthermore, the SSA commended the transformative work of her pet project, the Widows, Aged and Orphans Hope Initiative (WAOH). He noted that through this initiative, Her Excellency has provided life-changing support and numerous empowerment opportunities for countless Ekiti residents, bringing succour and dignity to families in need.

Hon. Olarewaju also lauded Dr. Oyebanji’s strong stance on the welfare and protection of women. “Her firm resolve to ensure that Gender-Based Violence (GBV) laws are followed through to the letter is a testament to her bold step towards enhancing the lives of women and ensuring justice prevails.”

He also celebrated her dedicated focus on children, particularly through the highly successful Back to School projects, which have provided essential learning tools including school bags, stationery, and instructional materials to at least 10,000 children. Her committed focus on the girl-child, ensuring they receive the necessary tools to excel in their academic pursuits, is highly commendable.

Concluding his statement, Hon. Olarewaju offered a final, heartfelt congratulatory message:

“We celebrate not just the passing of a year, but a year filled with immense impact, grace, and purposeful leadership. May God grant Her Excellency Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji many more years in sound health, prosperity, and continued inspiration to advance her remarkable service to Ekiti State and humanity.”

Ekiti Set for Cultural Contest to Tackle GBV, Promote Heritage.

Ekiti Set for Cultural Contest to Tackle GBV, Promote Heritage.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

All is set for the Ekiti State Cultural Contest Preliminaries, an event designed to celebrate the state’s rich cultural heritage while raising awareness on the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV).

The initiative, organised by Gender Mobile Initiative in partnership with the Ekiti State Ministry of Local Government Affairs, Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, and Ministry of Women Affairs, is part of the Social Norms Approach to GBV Policy Implementation and Enforcement Project.

According to the organisers, the contest will feature performances from various local government areas across the three senatorial districts of the state, with participants showcasing creativity through songs, drama, and other cultural displays addressing harmful social norms.

The preliminaries will kick off in the Ekiti Central Senatorial District on Monday, November 10, 2025, at the Ado Local Government Marriage Registry Hall. LGAs participating include Ado, Efon, Ekiti West, Ijero, and Irepodun/Ifelodun.

Next in line is the Ekiti North Senatorial District, which will hold its event on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at the Olowojurubu Hall, Moba Local Government. Competing LGAs include Ido Osi, Ikole, Ilejemeje, Moba, and Oye.

The preliminaries will wrap up with the Ekiti South Senatorial District on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at the Orun Ekiti Town Hall, beside Orun Police Station, New Emure Road, Orun Ekiti, featuring participants from Ekiti East, Ekiti South West, Emure, Ikere, Aiyekire, and Ise/Orun.

Speaking ahead of the event, the organisers said the contest seeks to foster positive cultural values, challenge harmful practices, and promote gender equality through creative expression.

“This initiative combines the beauty of Ekiti culture with the urgent need to shift mindsets and build safer communities for all,” the statement added.

Oyebanji Commences Two-Week Annual Leave.

Oyebanji Commences Two-Week Annual Leave.

The Governor of Ekiti State, Mr Biodun Oyebanji will commence a two-week annual leave beginning from Sunday, November 9th, 2025.

The Chief Press Secretary, Yinka Oyebode in a statement on Friday said the Governor will resume office on Monday, November 24th, 2025.

According to him, ” The two-week leave is part of the Governor’s statutory annual leave.

” However, the Governor will be attending to crucial state matters while on leave.

” This is the first time Governor Oyebanji will be going on leave since assuming office on October 16th, 2022.”

Oyebanji swears in 10 Perm Secs, says no politics with appointment into critical positions.

Oyebanji swears in 10 Perm Secs, says no politics with appointment into critical positions.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji on Thursday sworn in 10 newly appointed Permanent Secretaries in the State Civil Service, urging them to discharge their duties effectively and do their best to maintain the tempo of development in the state.

Speaking at the event, which took place at the Lady Jibowu Hall, Government House, Ado- Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji urged the new Permanent Secretaries to work hand in hand with his administration to realize his government’s shared prosperity agenda as well as its vision of sustainable development in the state. 

He told the audience which include the deputy Governor, top government functionaries that the new permanent secretaries emerged through a highly competitive process, stating that he will not play politics with appointment into critical positions,  including the teaching profession.

The Governor, who revealed that the process of their selection and appointments followed their success in the highly competitive examination and based on objectivity, merit and free from any interference, said the exercise was in a bid to strengthen the leadership of the civil service and reposition it for effective service delivery. 

While commending the Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi for being diligent and discreet in handling the selection and appointment process, he stressed the need for government to foster culture of creativity, cooperation, innovation, efficiency, effectiveness and accountability within the MDAs since governance has continued to be complex and demands urgent performance.

The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to merit, transparency, and fairness in the state civil service, insisting that appointments and promotions will no longer be influenced by politics, religion, gender, or personal connections.

While congratulating the new Permanent Secretaries, the Governor reminded them that  the custody of public funds and effective implementation of government policies fall within their purview adding that, since their everyday choices will affect thousands of lives, they must be guided by patience and not convenience.

Those sworn in are S.O. Ibijola, Olaonipekun Eweje, Sunday Omoya, Morakinyo Akilo, Adelusi Lateef, Peter Ejimokun, Olufemi Adediran, Ayoola Clement, Bayode Lawrence, and Toyin Ojelabi-Pedro.

The Governor said “ This administration has consistently upheld a merit-based mechanism in the selection and appointment of key officers in the civil service. Out of the 141 eligible candidates invited for a computer-based test facilitated by UMA Capital Partners, only 28 emerged on the shortlist for the final interviews, from among which the first 10 were selected, so we still have 18.”

In an apparent reference to clamouring for waivers for some candidates that failed to meet the cut off marks in the recent teachers recruitment exercise, the Governor said here is no goin back on the merit - based approach used for the selection process . 

“  I'm not going to play politics with the appointment of those that will teach our children. Whoever that are appointed, they are indigenes and citizens of Ekiti State, I just want the best to teach our children so that they can compete globally with anybody from any part of the world.”

He assured other candidates who made the cut off point and were not invited to be rest assured that as long as there is vacancies, government will still pick from them. The Governor added, “I am saying it publicly there's a cut-off now from number 10, When there are other vacancies, we start from number 11. We are not going to do any other appointment until we get to the cut-off minimum because the system must be seen to be fair. So, until we get to the last point on that list, I'm not going to do any other appointment.

“I would like to remind you all that the position of Permanent Secretaries is a call to service, I charge you to not only serve with diligence and excellence, but to equally inspire and motivate the staff you work with. Your appointment is not a suggestion that you are an imperial boss, but a mandate to be team leaders that inspire their subordinates. He said.

While highlighting some of the achievement of his administration in lifting the civil service beyond what it used to be in the past, Governor Oyebanji said, “As a government, we will continue to encourage professionalism and a level playground for civil servants. Our administrations, as upheld our commitment to excellence, diligence and fairness in the public service. 

He added, “Our commitment to the different welfare packages, such as car and housing loans evident by the 100% increases approved for different categories. I am aware that our financial commitment to the public service forums and the Award of Excellence programme has further ignited passion for excellence as a reward for our work.

Earlier, the Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi expressed her profound appreciation to Governor Oyebanji for giving the Civil Servants the necessary impetus to thrive despite the various challenges facing the service nationally as the Governor has consistently and deliberately shown himself as a leader who leads from the front by epitomizing the true meaning of a faithful and diligent public servant.

Olomojobi commended the Governor for prioritizing the development of the public service through capacity building, welfare enhancement, and consistent recognition of outstanding performance. She cited the government’s cash awards of excellence to 138 civil servants amounting to over one hundred and ten million naira, as well as infrastructure improvements and recruitment in the education and health sectors.

While congratulating the appointee, she urge them to carefully consider the assignment ahead and be constantly reminded that they have been called to a very special assignment that requires their expertise and innovation to strengthen the service for excellence and efficiency.

Also present at the event are Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, members of the state House of Assembly, Secretary to the State Government Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi, members of the state executive council, former Heads of Service and other top government officials.