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Trump Says US May Deploy Airstrikes, Ground Troops in Nigeria

Trump Says US May Deploy Airstrikes, Ground Troops in Nigeria

•Service chiefs, NSA declare Nigeria welcomes all support to crush insurgency

•Abdullahi Sule refutes genocide claims 

•ADC, Obi blame Tinubu 

•ACF calls for judicial panel of inquiry, says Nigeria not US colony

•NNPP cautions leaders on utterances against Nigeria

Emmanuel Addeh, Chucks Okocha, Linus Aleke in Abuja, Dike Onwuamaeze in Lagos and Yinka Kolawole in Oshogbo

US President, Donald  Trump, yesterday doubled down on his claim that Christians are being killed “in very large numbers”, and hinted at military intervention, noting that airstrikes as well as having US military boots on the ground in Nigeria were options that were being considered.

Speaking to reporters on Air Force One, Trump maintained that the US military “could be” deployed to Nigeria or carry out air strikes to stop what he called the killing of large numbers of Christians.

The comments followed his posting on Truth Social last week claiming that radical Islamists were committing “mass slaughter” and Christianity is “facing an existential threat” in the West African nation.

Asked whether he envisioned troops on the ground or air strikes in Nigeria, Trump responded: “Could be. I mean, other things. I envisage a lot of things. They’re killing record numbers of Christians in Nigeria…They’re killing the Christians and killing them in very large numbers. We’re not going to allow that to happen.”

Trump made the comment as he headed back to Washington after a weekend at his vacation home in Florida.

But Nigeria has said that while it welcomes help tackling Islamist insurgents, America must respect its sovereignty, pushing back against the claims of religious intolerance and defending the country’s efforts to protect religious freedom.

“The characterisation of Nigeria as religiously intolerant does not reflect our national reality, nor does it take into consideration the consistent and sincere efforts of the government to safeguard freedom of religion and beliefs for all Nigerians,” President Bola Tinubu said in a statement, at the beginning of the matter.

Already, the US has placed Nigeria on the list of countries “of particular concern” due to the alleged violations of religious freedom. The list also includes North Korea, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Pakistan and China.

However, the threat by the US President to intervene militarily in the alleged killing of Christians in Nigeria continued to attract mixed reactions yesterday, with several prominent Nigerians as well as institutions expressing divergent views on the matter.

Service Chiefs, NSA Seek Support to Crush Insurgency

Also yesterday, Nigeria’s service chiefs said that every support meant to crush the insecurity in parts of the country will be welcome by Nigeria, but insisted that no Christian is being singled out for persecution in the country.

Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS),  Olufemi Oluyede, who spoke shortly after a meeting coordinated by the The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, stated that although Nigeria continues to face some level of insecurity, especially terrorism, the security apparatus was doing its best to checkmate the problem.

Having reorganised the leadership of some of the military heads, Oluyede noted that Nigeria is now more than ever, ready to tackle the challenges head-on, describing his colleagues as seasoned and noting that they will add impetus to the war against insurgency.

“I want to assure Nigerians that going forward, we are going to add more to what we have done and ensure that we checkmate these acts of terrorism within Nigeria. Terrorism is a global problem, there are several countries that are challenged in that respect and it calls for collective efforts.

“So, if we have countries out there who are ready to support Nigeria, we are willing to have them on board to help us checkmate the acts of terrorism within the space of Nigeria. So, we welcome everybody’s support,“ Oluyede, who spoke on behalf of his colleagues, said.

THISDAY learnt that the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, coordinated the high-level meeting with the service chiefs and heads of security and intelligence agencies in Abuja, amid growing international attention on Nigeria’s internal security situation.

Although the details of the closed-door session were not immediately made public, the meeting was believed to have focused on recent reports suggesting that Trump directed American defence authorities to prepare for possible military action in Nigeria.

Gov Abdullahi Sule Refutes US Genocide Claims, Adeleke Seeks Peaceful Engagement

In a reaction, the Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, who spoke with Arise News yesterday, dismissed claims of religious genocide in Nigeria as false and damaging, maintaining that the country’s internal security challenges have nothing to do with religion.

Sule stressed that the recent allegations of killings and genocide circulating in the US pushed by certain elements in the US were based on wrong information shared with foreign legislators.

He stressed: “Unfortunately, they got the wrong information and are working with it…There is definitely nothing like religious genocide in Nigeria. These claims often come from politicians or frustrated individuals who don’t understand the consequences of their statements. When you go to the root of most conflicts, you find they are not as presented. Everybody knows there is no genocide of any religion anywhere in Nigeria.”

Also yesterday, Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun state appealed for renewed diplomatic engagement between Nigeria and the US over the recent security situation in the country.

In a statement issued over the recent threat of security and diplomatic actions against Nigeria by Trump, Adeleke said: “I appeal to the Presidency of the United States of America to support Nigeria to fully implement the recently developed national security strategy. The new strategy is comprehensive and capable of taking on the monster of banditry and terroristic killings in many parts of the country.”

The governor who commiserated with families of victims across the northern region said the American intervention is a wake-up call to rigorously implement new security measures and forceful counter-terrorism actions in partnership with diplomatic allies, adding that “we need help from the United States and others to solve the terrorism challenge.

He added: “Nigeria suffers from unfortunate killings across Northern Nigeria which has claimed lives of many innocent citizens. We believe a high-powered engagement at the presidential level will particularly open to the American government the ongoing security operations, successes and challenges Nigeria is facing in the fight against terrorism.

“We need our international partners to expand their support for the Nigerian security agencies and its political leadership to face national security challenges. Peaceful interface between Abuja and Washington holds the key rather than military intervention by the American government.”

Adeleke  lauded the Nigerian presidency for its diplomatic moves to douse the tension and address genuine concerns of its Western partners, especially the US.

“This is the time to unite as a nation to support the national leadership to frontally address internal and external threats for the protection of the citizenry. This is the time to back the President to enforce the letters and spirit of the constitution in all facets of national life. We need peace, not war to deepen our democracy and protect our citizens”, the governor said.

ADC Blames Tinubu for Ongoing Face-off

In its reaction, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has held Tinubu’s administration responsible for Nigeria’s recent designation by Trump as a ‘country of particular concern,’ blaming worsening insecurity and diplomatic failures for plunging the nation into global disrepute.

The opposition party said nearly 15,000 Nigerians have lost their lives to violent attacks since  Tinubu took office in 2023, accusing his government of neglecting its most sacred duty to protect lives and property.

In a statement by the National Publicity Secretary of the ADC, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party said the US’ decision reflected deep international worry over Nigeria’s deteriorating human rights record and security situation, as well as the administration’s seeming inability to respond with the urgency and empathy the crisis demands.

“We are guided by the painful reality that what is truly at stake are the thousands of human lives lost to insecurity in Nigeria irrespective of tribe, religion, or region. We therefore seize this moment to honour the memory of all the victims and extend our deepest sympathies to their families,” Abdullahi said.

The ADC described Trump’s designation as a wake-up call, stressing that in today’s world, human rights and security concerns go beyond national borders and that a nation’s dignity is now measured not only by its economy but also by how it values human life.

“President Trump’s statement serves as a stark reminder of the global concern for the sanctity of human life and the fundamental duty of national governments to protect citizens within their borders. The dignity of nations is now measured by their willingness and capacity to protect their own people,” the party said.

The ADC expressed concern that under Tinubu’s leadership, insecurity had deepened across the country, with communities displaced, worshippers killed in sacred spaces, and terrorist groups extending their reach beyond the North into the Middle Belt and other regions.

Citing the October 31, 2025, terror attack in Kwara State, claimed by the Al-Qaeda-linked JNIM, the party said the incident was evidence that the situation had spiralled out of control.

“Entire communities have been sacked; worshippers slaughtered in sacred spaces; and bandits now control vast territories, imposing taxes on citizens with impunity. Boko Haram, once declared ‘technically degraded,’ is regaining strength, while new international terror groups openly claim successful attacks on Nigerian soil,” the ADC stated.

While acknowledging that the insecurity problem predated Tinubu’s tenure, the party accused the President of worsening it through denial, poor accountability, and lack of compassion for victims.

“The insecurity crisis did not begin under President Tinubu, but he has failed to acknowledge its worsening under his watch or accept responsibility. Instead, Nigerians have been met with excuses, silence, indifference, and political posturing that mock the tragedy of victims and their families,” it said.

The ADC also criticised the government’s foreign policy direction, pointing to what it called ‘diplomatic inertia,’ noting that more than two years into Tinubu’s term, several key embassies remain without ambassadors.

“Why has the government failed to appoint ambassadors to key countries more than two years into its term? How can an administration boasting of record revenues still cite lack of funds as an excuse? Why has foreign policy become so personalised, focused on the president’s image rather than Nigeria’s interests?” Abdullahi queried.

The party further decried Nigeria’s waning influence in West Africa, saying the country’s leadership role within ECOWAS had weakened significantly.

“Under President Tinubu, Nigeria’s leadership status in Africa has sharply declined. Nothing illustrates this more than the fracturing of ECOWAS under his watch. A region that once looked up to Nigeria for guidance on democracy and security now watches us fumble with our own crises,” the party lamented.

To restore stability, the ADC called for sweeping reforms, including an overhaul of the security architecture, the appointment of qualified ambassadors, a foreign policy reset, and renewed economic focus anchored on accountability and institutional integrity.

“We must act now, with courage, clarity, and an unyielding commitment to protect the lives and dignity of every Nigerian. Certainly, Nigeria cannot continue like this,” the party added.

While appealing for international support, the ADC urged the US and other world powers to focus on strengthening Nigeria’s democracy rather than imposing punitive measures.

“We appreciate President Trump and other world leaders for their concern about the security situation in our country. However, mobilising or threatening military intervention would be counterproductive, undermining our democratic aspirations and long-term unity,” the ADC said.

The party warned that with insecurity rising, global confidence declining, and what it described as a government ‘obsessed with propaganda and self-celebration,’ Nigeria was running out of time to prevent total collapse unless urgent, decisive action was taken.

CPPE: US Military Threat against Nigeria Unwarranted

Also, the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE) has described the recent threat of military actions against Nigeria by the US as unwarranted, counterproductive and economically destabilising. 

The Chief Executive Officer of CPPE, Dr Muda Yusuf, said that unilateral military action would destabilise Nigeria’s economy, threaten regional stability, and aggravate humanitarian conditions.

Yusuf pointed out that the constructive path forward lies in diplomacy, partnership, and shared commitment to peace, development, and mutual respect for sovereignty.

He said: “The US  threat of military intervention in Nigeria is unwarranted, counterproductive, and economically destabilising. It is a disproportionate response that fails to reflect the complexity of Nigeria’s internal security dynamics.”

Yusuf said that such statements would send unsettling signals to investors, heighten risk perception, and undermine confidence in Nigeria’s economy. He advised the federal government to continue to strengthen internal security architecture and governance, adding that any external engagement should be cooperative and not coercive.

He added: “The recent threat of possible military action against Nigeria by the President of the United States, President Donald Trump, carries far-reaching implications for the Nigerian economy and investor confidence.

“Although the statement appears to have been made on the basis of incomplete intelligence and misjudged assumptions, its source — the President of the United States — magnifies its potential impact.”

He emphasised that regardless of its inaccuracy, the pronouncement has already generated economic, diplomatic, and perception consequences for Nigeria.

“The statement risks undermining the country’s image as a stable investment destination, unsettling financial markets, and eroding confidence among both domestic and international investors,” he said.

The CPPE argued that Nigeria’s security challenges are complex, multifaceted, and asymmetrical and do not constitute a conventional war scenario but rather involve overlapping issues.

These issues, according to the organisation, include insurgency and terrorism, farmer–herder clashes, ethnic and communal conflicts, banditry and kidnapping as well as armed robbery and boundary disputes, adding that the victims of these conflicts cut across all religious and ethnic lines, underscoring that the crises are not state-engineered but socio-economic and governance-driven.

Yusuf said: “The Nigerian government has consistently prioritised security — with defense and security allocations constituting the highest share of recent national budgets. Any suggestion of government complicity in these atrocities is grossly misleading and unfair to the present administration.

“A nuanced understanding of the country’s complex security landscape is essential before any external actor contemplates military intervention.”

He also said that the risks and economic implications of US military action would undermine investor’s confidence and perception.

“Even the mere threat of military action by a global superpower has inflicted significant reputational damage on Nigeria’s image as a safe and viable investment destination. Such rhetoric can trigger declines in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows, capital flight from portfolio and equity investors, a decline in venture capital and startup funding and heightened country risk ratings and investor anxiety,” he said.

Yusuf said that it would also have repercussions on Nigeria’s financial market. According to him, “market volatility would likely intensify as investors reassess Nigeria’s risk profile.

“Likely consequences include falling stock market valuations, rising country risk premiums and insurance costs, higher sovereign bond yields, Naira depreciation due to capital outflows and portfolio reversals and macroeconomic stability risks,” he said.

He noted that an escalation in perceived geopolitical risk could tighten financial conditions and distort macroeconomic indicators.  “Nigeria may, therefore, experience rising interest rates, weakened currency and higher inflationary pressures, reduced foreign reserves and lower external buffers, pressure on fiscal balances from increased defense spending and lower investment inflows,” the CPPE boss stated.

Obi Links Current Situation to Incompetent Leadership

In the same vein, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general polls, Peter Obi, has spoken on the raging controversy over the designation of Nigeria as Country of Particular Concern by the US, saying the situation is a consequence of a lack of competent and committed leadership, as well as poor deployment of available resources.

Writing on his X handle on Monday, the former LP standard bearer said: “The recent pronouncement by the US government declaring Nigeria a ‘Country of Particular Concern’ (CPC) and indicating possible military action should give every well-meaning Nigerian serious concern. There is no doubt that Nigeria is experiencing an unprecedented level of insecurity with attendant carnage and the most shocking loss of lives and property.

‘’According to Amnesty International, over 10,000 people have been killed in Nigeria since May 2023 and as I have repeatedly lamented, the unwarranted and unprovoked killing of Nigerians is most condemnable, and all efforts must be made to bring it to a stop. It is equally important to state that the terrible situation is significantly avoidable with competent leadership and governance.

‘’While the insecurity did not start with the present government, what is most unfortunate is the lack and absence of competence, commitment, prudent use of resources, patriotism and passion on the part of APC APC-led government/leaders to effectively govern, galvanise and lead Nigeria where no one is unwarrantedly oppressed and killed, a Nation where peace, truth and justice reign!

“As democracies, Nigeria and the US have long been strategic partners committed to regional peace and security. That relationship should not falter.

‘’The present situation calls for constructive diplomatic and any other plausible engagement by both nations aimed at addressing the prevailing and disturbing security concerns. Both countries must work in concert and expeditiously towards that purpose.’’

NNPP Cautions Leaders on Utterances against Nigeria

Meanwhile, the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) on Monday said Nigerian leaders should not see the US military invasion threat on Nigeria as an issue for politics, rather they should speak and stand  in defence of the nation.

NNPP Founder, Dr Boniface Aniebonam, gave the advice in a statement on Monday in Lagos.

Aniebonam spoke against the backdrop of controversies and different views on the US military invasion threat of Nigeria on Friday, over alleged Christian Genocide.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the invasion threat of Nigeria by the US military has led to deep arguments in Nigeria and across the globe.

The NNPP founder noted that in matters affecting Nigeria’s international image and safety, a matter of such magnitude of military invasion, politicians and opinion leaders must guard their utterances and join in seeking solution.

He said there is a need for public opinion leaders and politicians to be cautious in matters affecting the country, noting that insecurity in Nigeria is not a religious matter.

“Indeed, the level of insecurity is quite high but it is not about Christians or Muslims as viewed by the US president. Nigeria is doing a lot to fight insecurity, kidnapping, human organ trafficking, killings by agitators in various regions and most importantly, the President Bola Tinubu’s  administration has continued to fight the issue, even with the recent change of service chiefs.

‘We must join hands and support our government to overcome the challenges. Trump must be aware of the consequences of invading Nigeria, and its multiplier effect on the regional and global world economy, life and property of Nigerians,” he said.

The NNPP chieftain stated that he believed that Trump’s threat is a wake up call for Nigerian Leaders, governors, lawmakers,  council chairmen, traditional rulers and religious leaders to be more proactive and decisive in joining  hands to  stop the menace.

“Insecurity is not insurmountable. Nigeria could have overcome this threat long ago but the division, politics and religious differences affected outcomes of the fight. The blame games made those who should assist security agencies to sit back and look for reasons to criticise a situation that affects all.

“This is no longer about propaganda or name calling of President Tinubu, or Trump, it should be about lessons learnt from his threat and what we can do together as a people about the welfare and wellbeing of Nigerians. We must all take a stand today to stop the senseless killings nationwide. All of us must help in our little ways,” Aniebonam added.

ACF to US: Nigeria Is Not Your Colony, Calls for Judicial Panel

Besides, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) yesterday urged the US to be cautious in its dealings with Nigeria, stressing that the country is not a colony of the Trump-led nation.

Speaking during a visit to Arise Television on its forthcoming 25th anniversary, the organisation also urged the federal government to set up a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to investigate the claims by all the parties.

By doing this, the Chairman, Board of Trustees (BoT) of the ACF, Bashir Dalhatu, argued, those who have made those claims would have the opportunity to put out their evidence in an open and transparent manner. However, he noted that those who are alleging genocide should have approached the United Nations (UN) instead of the US.

“I would have also thought that those who had made this complaint had gone to the United Nations instead of the United States of America. We are not a colony of the United States. We do not owe the United States any explanation as to how we run our domestic affairs.

“What we are doing, however, is to make sure that the world understands the true nature of these conflicts. There are so many conflicts in Nigeria and you can easily paint a picture and emphasise it. But as to this particular one, all of us here, because we are Nigerians, we know that is not true.

“We also know, in the last 15 years, the conflict in the North-east. Boko Haram is not targeted at Christians. It is not targeted at Muslims. These are insurgents who want to make headlines every day.

“In doing so, they don’t care whether they kill a Muslim or a Christian. But they are operating in a predominantly Muslim area, so their victims are predominantly Muslims. Of course, there are Christians. But for an insurgent, he doesn’t care whether he kills a Muslim or a Christian,” he argued.

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•Service chiefs, NSA declare Nigeria welcomes all support to crush insurgency •Abdullahi Sule refutes genocide claims  •ADC, Obi blame Tinubu  •ACF calls for judicial panel of inquiry, says Nigeria not

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Amupitan: Anambra Election is My First Test, We Will Deliver a Credible Exercise

Amupitan: Anambra Election is My First Test, We Will Deliver a Credible Exercise

•IG warns IPOB, ESN, says attempt to disrupt poll will be met with stiff resistance  

•Soludo: all candidates are my friends, we’ll abide by peace accord

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka and Linus Aleke in Abuja

Chairman of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, SAN, has said the Anambra State governorship election, scheduled for November 8, will be his first major test in office, and he is ready to deliver a credible exercise.

Amupitan gave the assurance yesterday during a peace accord signing ceremony for all the 16 political parties in the contest, their candidates, and state chairmen.

Inspector General of Police (IG) Kayode Egbetokun, who was represented at the signing ceremony by Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) Benjamin Okolo, assured the people that the police would ensure maximum security during the election.

Egbetokun warned separatist groups, like Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN), saying any attempt to disrupt the election will be resisted.

Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, who spoke on behalf of the governorship candidates, assured that the parties and their candidates would adhere to the peace accord. Soludo said Anambra had a history of fighting dirty during elections, but the candidates would always meet at the weekend to wine and dine together.

The peace accord signing ceremony, a pre-election ritual in Nigeria, was organised by National Peace Committee (NPC), under the Kukah Centre. It was aimed at ensuring that all participants in the Saturday election abided by peaceful conduct.

The INEC chairman, who expressed happiness at the peace accord signing initiative, said, “As INEC chairman, I’m proud to be part of this peace accord signing for Anambra 2025 off-cycle election.

“I was appointed recently and this is going to be my first assignment and I’m committed to ensuring that this election is fair, credible and free. As much as we are committed to peace, we can only succeed if we have corresponding support from all the stakeholders.

“After witnessing the national peace accord signing five years ago, we decided to devolve it to involve not just the presidential election but states. This was because of the violence that had followed some elections in the past.

“We have had this several times and this is the second time it is happening here in Anambra. Parties have always honoured the accord and we have always had peaceful election.”

Amupitan added, “Today, we gather just days to the election and as an election body, I want to assure you that INEC is ready to deliver global best practices. It is not the signatures on this papers that bring peace, it is the commitment of those involved.

“So as you append your signature to this, ensure that the message cascades to all your supporters. By signing the peace accord, you are not only agreeing to this but showing that democracy can only thrive where peace prevails.

“Let us work together to ensure that the coming election is remembered for peace. Anambra is a microcosm of Nigeria and this election will be significant to other elections that are coming up.”

The INEC chairman urged voters to expect significant improvement in election day logistics, saying the election would be an improvement in every area.

According to him, a total of 2.8 million voters would decide the winner of the election, and the commission would ensure full participation by extending the collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to Sunday.

Amupitan assured that his mandate was to deliver credible election and any individual trying to subvert the will of the people would be firmly resisted.

Egbetokun pledged maximum security by the police during the election. He warned separatist elements to steer clear, as they will be resisted.

He stated, “This address is to show that the police are committed and ready to present a free, fair, level playing ground to all. Ahead of the forthcoming election, we will ensure order. The Nigeria Police Force stands prepared to ensure that the exercise happens under a free fair and credible atmosphere.

“We will be civil, yet firm and any attempt to undermine public peace will be met with stiff resistance. We remain alert, and we warn the proscribed IPOB and ESN that the peace of Anambra State shall not be negotiated.”

Speaking on behalf of the candidates, Soludo said, “The candidates are all my friends. The roforofo (fight) will end on Thursday and by Sunday we will all go for thanksgiving. It is the Anambra way. When we fight, we fight as if there is no tomorrow, but after that we get back and begin to dine and wine together.

“I thank the Kukah Centre for initiating this. This is my second time participating in this, and reading through the wordings, it is quite important to our democratic process and we hope that we internalise all the wordings.

“To my colleagues, what we signed today is something we should go home with and give to our campaign partners. What we have signed today is a secret oath. As we go home, let us try to domesticate the oath we have taken.

“We will cooperate with the INEC to ensure that this is the best election ever in terms of transparency, due process, integrity and all.   “To the police, I say we have 5,720 polling units. You will secure the state and secure the electoral process.

“We are committed to one man, one vote. Let people vote, count the votes and announce the votes. My party, the APGA, and I, will be happy to abide by this.”

Earlier, the chairman of NPC, Gen. Abdulsalami Abukakar (Rtd.), who was represented by Gen. Martin Luther Agwai, called for peace throughout the period of the process.

He said, “We are gathered here above all rising ambition and party interests, but for the security, dignity of Anambra people. Democracy can only thrive where there is restraint and where life is held sacred. Anambra is a special place in our country, rich in heritage and innovation.

“As an example of maturity, today’s commitment is not in words only but in discipline and actions. To our respected traditional rulers and religious leaders, we recognise your role as custodians of wisdom and unity.

“Your voices of guidance will be needed to uphold peace within our communities. To the media, we appeal for reporting that informs and not reporting that fuel division.

“Let us all remember that democracy is at its best when it truly reflects the will of the people. It must be expressed freely, peacefully and with dignity. When we honour these principles, we protect not only the value but the peace and stability of our society.” All 16 candidates of the political parties contesting the election and chairmen of their parties signed the peace accord

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•IG warns IPOB, ESN, says attempt to disrupt poll will be met with stiff resistance   •Soludo: all candidates are my friends, we’ll abide by peace accord David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

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Stock Market Loses N246bn, Nigeria’s Bonds Fall, Over Trump’s Threat, Analysts Allay Fears

Stock Market Loses N246bn, Nigeria’s Bonds Fall, Over Trump’s Threat, Analysts Allay Fears

Ndubisi Francis in Abuja, Nume Ekeghe and Kayode Tokede in Lagos 

The Nigerian stock market lost N246 billion yesterday as investors traded cautiously following U.S. President Donald Trump’s designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged widespread killings of Christians, rising religious intolerance, and his further threat of military action if the government fails to curb the violence.

Following  the development, financial analysts have called for calm, stressing that the fundamentals of the Nigerian economy remain strong.

At the stock market, investors’ profit-taking in fundamental stocks dragged the market capitalisation to N97.583 trillion at the close of trading activities, a 0.25per cent or N246 billion decline from N97.829 trillion the stock market opened for trading this week.

Consequently, the Nigerian Exchange Limited All-Share Index (NGX ASI) closed for trading at 153,739.11basis points, a 0.25per cent or  387.35 basis points decline from the 154,126.46 basis points the stock market closed for trading last week.

Capital market analysts attributed the downward movement in the Nigerian stock market to speculative trading by investors. 

In a post on Truth Social, Trump had said he had instructed the Pentagon to “prepare for possible action” and warned of an immediate suspension of United States aids to Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation and an OPEC member.

In his reaction, President Bola Tinubu had rejected Trump’s comments, calling them a misrepresentation of Nigeria’s “consistent and sincere efforts to safeguard freedom of religion and belief for all Nigerians.”

To the Managing Director, Globalview Capital Limited, Mr. Aruna Kebira, who spoke in a chat with  THISDAY, investors’ profit-taking in Aradel Holdings Plc, among others  impacted on the stock market performance.

“If the stock market maintains its downward trend throughout this week, it can easily be linked to threats by President Donald Trump.

“The stock market is meant to react to market forces as witnessed in investors’ profit-taking in Aradel Holdings and 38 others.

“We cannot conclude that investors reacted to President Donald Trump’s threats. Possibly it is going to happen is uncertain,” Kebira added.

Speaking also, the Vice President, Highcap Securities Limited, Mr. David Adnori, stated that investors on the NGX traded with caution, stressing that the Nigerian market, currently dominated by local investors, could withstand external shocks.

A Bloomberg report yesterday indicated that Nigeria’s dollar bonds suffered losses following remarks by Trump.

It had revealed that, “Nigerian dollar bonds fell across the maturity curve, comprising all 10 of the worst performers in emerging markets worldwide as of 9:50 a.m. in Lagos. The notes maturing in 2047 were down most, falling 0.6 cents on the dollar to 88.26 cents.”

However, traders and analysts who spoke to THISDAY said the initial market reaction was largely emotional and short-lived, stressing that the underlying fundamentals of Nigeria’s economy remain intact.

A fixed-income trader who preferred not to be named explained that the selloffs, though noticeable, presented an opportunity for bargain hunters.

“Yes, there were selloffs, but they created good entry points for investors who understand the market. The initial panic was more of a knee-jerk reaction than a reflection of Nigeria’s true risk profile,” the trader said.

Echoing this view, Head of Consulting at Agusto Consulting, Jimi Ogbobine, said markets are naturally jittery over geopolitical statements of this nature but added that such tensions are typically resolved diplomatically.

“President Trump’s comments, focusing on Nigeria’s security crisis and leaving room for speculation around military intervention, are certainly unsettling to markets.

“However, we believe this will be settled diplomatically. Nigeria and the U.S. have long-standing trade and security relations that are too strategic to be derailed by rhetoric,” Ogbobine noted.

He further observed that Nigeria’s government and private sector have historically maintained strong ties with the United States, particularly in oil, gas, and investment sectors.

“America remains one of the leading players in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, and both countries share significant economic interests. These will continue to guide engagement on both sides,” he added.

In a similar vein, the Chief Executive of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), Dr. Muda Yusuf, urged the federal government to respond through strategic diplomacy rather than public confrontation.

“Nigeria must adopt a strategic and proactive diplomatic response. This should include immediate high-level bilateral discussions with the U.S. government to clarify facts and de-escalate rhetoric.”

He urged that Nigeria deepen collaboration with Washington and regional partners on intelligence, counterterrorism, and peacebuilding, while strengthening domestic policy fundamentals to reinforce resilience against external shocks.

“While Nigeria must continue to strengthen internal security architecture and governance, any external engagement should be cooperative, not coercive,” Yusuf emphasised.

“Unilateral military action would destabilise Nigeria’s economy, threaten regional stability, and aggravate humanitarian conditions. The way to go is dialogue, not threats. We must project calm, reinforce investor confidence, and protect Nigeria’s economic stability through proactive diplomacy.”

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Ndubisi Francis in Abuja, Nume Ekeghe and Kayode Tokede in Lagos  The Nigerian stock market lost N246 billion yesterday as investors traded cautiously following U.S. President Donald Trump’s designation of

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Oyedele: Low-income Earners, SMEs to Reap Benefits of Tax Reforms Effective January

Oyedele: Low-income Earners, SMEs to Reap Benefits of Tax Reforms Effective January

•Pension assets, minimum wage earners, capital gains, education, agriculture, others to enjoy exemptions

James Emejo in Abuja

Chairman, Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, has said the new tax laws will provide several reliefs and exemptions for low-income earners, average taxpayers, and small businesses, from January next year.

In general, Oyedele said there were about 50 tax exemptions and reliefs designed to benefit the masses.

He said pension funds and assets under the Pension Reform Act (PRA) were tax-exempt, including pension, gratuity or any retirement benefits granted in line with PRA.

Compensation for loss of employment up to N50 million will also not be liable to tax under the new regime, he said.

In addition, under the Capital Gains Tax (CGT), sale of an owner-occupied house, and personal effects or chattels worth N5 million are tax exempt, he said.

Others, according to Oyedele, included sale of two private vehicles per year, gains on shares below N150 million per year or gains of about N10 million, pension funds, charities, and religious institutions (non-commercial), as well as gains on shares above exemption threshold, if the proceeds were reinvested.

An update by the presidential tax reforms committee further clarified that the new tax dispensation also provided for allowance deductions and reliefs for individuals.

Among others things, pension contribution to Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs), National Health Insurance Scheme, and National Housing Fund contributions will not be subjected to tax.

Similarly, interest on loans for owner-occupied residential housing, life insurance or annuity premiums are tax free.

Also, 20 per cent of annual rent of up to N500,000 will be exempted from tax obligations.

Furthermore, effective January, individuals earning the national minimum wage or less, and annual gross income of N1.2 million (translating to about N800,000 taxable income) are tax exempt.

Oyedele said the reforms further reduced PAYE tax for those earning annual gross income up to N20 million as well as exempted gifts from tax.

Small companies whose turnover are not more than N100 million and total fixed assets N250 million will pay zero tax, while eligible start-ups are tax exempt, he said.

He said there was also compensation relief – 50 per cent additional deduction for salary increases, wage awards, or transport subsidies for low-income workers, as well as employment relief, involving 50 per cent deduction for salaries of new employees hired and retained for at least three years.

Under the proposed tax regime, there is provision for holiday for the first five years for agricultural businesses (crop production, livestock, dairy among others), Oyedele said.

Also free from tax are gains from investment in a labelled start-up by venture capitalist, private equity fund, accelerators or incubators.

Others are exemptions of small companies from four per cent development levy as well as exemptions of manufacturers and agriculture businesses from withholding tax deduction on their income.

Small companies are further exempted from deduction on their payments to suppliers.

Oyedele stressed that the tax reforms also granted zero per cent exemptions on basic food items, rent, education services and materials, health and medical services, and pharmaceutical products.

He said small companies will enjoy VAT exemptions on turnover less than N100 million, diesel, petrol, and solar power equipment among others.

Electronic money transfers below N10,000, salary payments, intra-bank transfers, transfers of government securities or shares and all documents for transfer of stocks and shares are not subject to tax, Oyedele said.

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•Pension assets, minimum wage earners, capital gains, education, agriculture, others to enjoy exemptions James Emejo in Abuja Chairman, Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, has said

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FG Urges Resident Doctors to Call off Strike as Talks to Resolve Dispute Continue

FG Urges Resident Doctors to Call off Strike as Talks to Resolve Dispute Continue

•Task force to ensure normal services at hospitals

•To pay salary increment arrears within 72hrs

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The federal government has appealed to striking Resident Doctors to return to work and allow both parties to use the opportunity of the ongoing negotiations to resolve all outstanding issues holistically and sustainably.

It stated that the Ministry was setting up a Task Force to monitor service delivery at various federal government-owned health facilities nationwide, to ensure that the strike does not cause major disruptions.

However, the Resident Doctors have insisted that they would not suspend the industrial action unless their demands are met.

Addressing journalists in Abuja yesterday, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, said the government has substantially addressed most of the items contained in the 19-point demand by the Resident Doctors.

“Mr. President has expressly directed that we should do everything possible and legitimate to ensure that doctors are brought back to their duty posts,” he said.

Salako took time to explain efforts being made by the Ministry to address most of the issues agitating the minds of the doctors.

On the payment of arrears of salary increment, the minister said: “We agreed that we are owing them seven months arrears of this, 25 percent and 35, percent Wage Award. And I’ve explained to you that in August, the total sum, I think, comes to about N41 billion, and we have paid N10 billion.  As of Thursday, N21 billion has been paid. Another almost 12 billion is being processed from it, so that covers the entire arrears that is being owed.”

On the whole, Salako said the federal government has paid 66 percent of the total arrears and was processing the remaining arrears of about 33 percent to be paid within the next 72 hours.

Salako said one of the major factors fueling conflict in the health sector was the division among the various professional bodies within the healthcare system.

According to the minister, these professional bodies try to negotiate separate conditions of service to the extent that even where there should be harmonisation, they still go ahead and secure agreements in silos, thereby creating problems in implementation.

He said the present administration was determined to end the era of such confusion in the health sector, adding that henceforth, all the health sector unions are being made to negotiate and resolve issues of commonality under the collective bargaining agreement (CBA).

The minister said the ministry had to rescind its decision to approve the appointment of non-doctors to the consultant cadre after doctors raised complaints about it.

He added that the ministry had to also wade into the misunderstanding created by a circular issued with regard to salary increments negotiated by one segment of the health workers after ensuring its withdrawal by the Office of the Salaries, Income and Wages Commission.

 “The CBA directed that the Federal Minister of Health and Social Welfare should go back, talk to the health workers to resolve those two issues in-house, and then, having resolved those issues in-house to come back to the CBA so that the CBA can proceed.

“And as a result, we started meeting with all the unions, three of them aggregated. The doctors, aggregated under the Nigerian Medical Association, the nurses, under the National Association of nurses and midwives, and other health workers aggregated under the Joint Health Sector Union. So we started meeting with them around August,” he said. 

Salako, explained that the Minister of Labour and Employment, who is heading the CBA constituted to negotiate the health dispute, submitted an interim report which the ministry is studying.

“It is in the course of that temporary suspension of the CBA that the National Association of Resident Doctors came up with their ultimatum.

 “Ideally, one of the key requirements of CBA is that it is going on is ongoing. There should be no declaration of industrial issues.

“But despite that, we met with NARD. I met with them twice last week, and the Minister of Finance has met with them. The Minister of Labour and Employment has met with them. Minister of State for Finance has also met with them to try and address all the 19-point issues

“I can tell you that most of these issues are being addressed. First, they spoke about unregulated work hours and prolonged Call duties, mainly due to what they call the shortage of manpower.

“Let me use this opportunity to inform Nigeria that in 2024 alone, the Federal Minister of Health, using a special waiver mechanism that no other sector employs, we were able to engage 14,444 health workers across 64 federal tertiary health institutions. 78 percent of those workers are clinical staff. Out of those clinical staff, 908 are consultants,” he added.

The Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre, Keffi in Nasarawa state, Dr. Yahaya Baba, spoke on the impact of the strike by resident doctors and the efforts being made by management of the affected hospitals to mitigate it.

He said that all the emergency units of the hospitals have been fully activated and that Consultant doctors are being entrusted with catering for patients in the health facilities.

Meanwhile, the Resident Doctors have responded to the federal government’s offer to release funds for payment of arrears of salary increment owed them, saying that they expect their 19-point demand to addressed.

In a statement jointly signed by its president, Dr. Mohammad Usman Suleiman, and Secretary General, Dr. Shuaibu Ibrahim, NARD said it was imperative to set the records straight.

“While we acknowledge the Ministry’s attempt to reassure the public, the reality on the ground stands in stark contrast to the optimistic narrative conveyed.

“We do not intend to join issues with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare but for the sake of transparency, truth, and the health of Nigerians, it is imperative to set the records straight, particularly for the sake of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu how may have been misinformed about the true nature of our grievances.

“While the Ministry claims that over N30 billion has been released to offset arrears owed to health workers (with doctors receiving only a small fraction of the total sum), this seems diversionary from the crux of the demands raised by NARD,” it added.

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•Task force to ensure normal services at hospitals •To pay salary increment arrears within 72hrs Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja The federal government has appealed to striking Resident Doctors to return

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Gov Aiyedatiwa: We’re Investing in Digital Education Infrastructure, to Meet Global Standard

Gov Aiyedatiwa: We’re Investing in Digital Education Infrastructure, to Meet Global Standard

•Declares open 69th National Council on Education Summit

Fidelis David in Akure

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State on Monday disclosed that his administration is committed to investment in digital infrastructure in the education sector and repositioning it to meet the global standard.

The governor who made the disclosure at the opening ceremony of the 69th National Council on Education (NCE) meeting, held in Akure, highlighted the infrastructure development and recruitment of digitally-skilled tutors as part of the efforts.

Aiyedatiwa, represented by his Deputy, Olayide Adelami, said: “We are happy that this 69th summit of NCE is taking place here in our Sunshine state. Ondo state is known for its legacy of excellence, innovation and commitment to human capital development. Education remains the most reliable instrument for social, economic and technological transformation of any society.

“The government of Ondo State recognises the centrality of education in sustainable development. This has been the driving force propelling policy reforms and implementation in the education sector of the state.

“Efforts have been directed at enhancing access and quality of education in Ondo state. Such efforts include but not limited to investment in digital education infrastructure, such as gradual introduction of smart classrooms, digital literacy programmes and technology-based learning tools to prepare our learners for the demands of the 21st-century knowledge economy” the governor reiterated.

Speaking on the theme of the conference; ‘Quality Education Data and Professionalisation of Teaching: Tools for Enhanced National Development’, the governor emphasized the role of educators in nation building.

In his address, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Education, Abel Enitan, stressed the professionalism of teaching as a long-standing goal that has gained renewed momentum in recent years.

“Our collective responsibility is to ensure that teachers are well-prepared, well-supported, and well-rewarded.

“Professionalisation of teaching must go hand-in-hand with improved working conditions and clear career pathways. A teacher who feels valued will in turn inspire students to value learning, and this is the chain of transformation that builds great nations,” Enitan said.

The event had in attendance government officials, including the State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, chairman of SUBEB, Rt. Hon. Victor Olabimtan, chairman of TESCOM, Dr. Oludaisi Oke and some royal fathers, among others.

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•Declares open 69th National Council on Education Summit Fidelis David in Akure Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State on Monday disclosed that his administration is committed to investment in digital

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Tinubu Appoints Five Permanent Secretaries for FCT, Imo, Regional Political Zones

Tinubu Appoints Five Permanent Secretaries for FCT, Imo, Regional Political Zones

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of five new Permanent Secretaries to fill existing vacancies in the Federal Civil Service.

The newly appointed Permanent Secretaries, according to the Director Information and Public Relations, Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Eno Olotu, are Ibrahim Abdulkarim Ozi (Federal Capital Territory), Ezemama John Chidiebere (Imo State), Garba Abdul Sule Usman (North Central Geo-Political Zone), Mohammed Musa Ishiyaku (North East Geo-Political Zone) and Ukaire Binyerem Chigbowu (South East Geo-Political Zone).

It said the new Permanent Secretaries would bring a wealth of experience and expertise to their roles, which will further strengthen the delivery of Public Services and support the government’s development agenda. 

According to the statement, the appointments followed a rigorous and transparent selection process in line with the administration’s commitment to meritocracy and excellence in the civil service.

The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, congratulated the newly appointed Permanent Secretaries and commended President Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to entrenching the principles of transparency, meritocracy, and professionalism in the civil service.

 She emphasized that these appointments reflected the administration’s dedication to fostering a competent and results-oriented Public Service that meets the needs of Nigerians. 

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Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of five new Permanent Secretaries to fill existing vacancies in the Federal Civil Service. The newly appointed Permanent