Abdulsalami Abubakar, former Nigerian military Head of State, has urged Nigerians to set aside political, ethnic, and religious differences in defense of the nation’s sovereignty, stressing that unity and wisdom are crucial as the country faces what he described as “serious external provocations.”
Speaking from London during a telephone interview with journalists on Tuesday, the elder statesman expressed concern over reported remarks attributed to U.S. President Donald Trump, which he said posed a “grave threat” to Nigeria’s hard-earned peace and unity.
Abubakar, a retired General, noted that such comments, if not handled with caution, could undermine Nigeria’s stability and strain diplomatic relations between Abuja and Washington.
“This is a moment for Nigerians to come together and protect the sovereignty and integrity of our nation,” the former leader said. “We must not allow external influences or inflammatory statements to divide us. Unity, wisdom, and diplomacy must take precedence over division and pride at this critical time.”
Abubakar, who led Nigeria’s transition to democracy in 1999, emphasised that the country’s strength lies in its diversity and collective resolve to overcome challenges. He warned against political and social divisions that could be exploited by external actors to destabilise the nation.
“I am deeply concerned about the recent reports of comments made by President Trump. Nigeria has worked hard to build peace and maintain stability over the years, and any statement that threatens that progress must be treated seriously but wisely,” he added.
Calling for calm and restraint, Abubakar urged Nigerian leaders and citizens alike to respond to the situation with a spirit of unity and maturity. He advised that confrontation or emotional reactions would only worsen tensions. Instead, he advocated for “quiet diplomacy and strategic engagement” with the United States to de-escalate the situation and address underlying concerns.
According to him, “It is important that our government engages Washington through constructive dialogue. The path of diplomacy and mutual respect must guide our actions. Nigeria and the United States have long-standing ties that should not be jeopardised by miscommunication or hasty conclusions.”
Abubakar also appealed to the U.S. administration to demonstrate partnership and understanding, particularly in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to combat terrorism, banditry, and other forms of insecurity. He emphasised that genuine allies should support one another in confronting shared global threats rather than resorting to rhetoric that could inflame tensions.
“The United States has always been a strategic partner to Nigeria. Instead of threats, we expect collaboration in tackling insecurity and promoting peace in West Africa,” he said. “We should be looking at ways to strengthen cooperation, not weaken it.”
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The former military ruler further noted that Nigeria’s leadership must act decisively yet prudently in managing foreign relations, warning that national pride should not eclipse pragmatic diplomacy. “Wisdom dictates that we engage rather than confront. We must remember that our common goal is peace, stability, and prosperity for all Nigerians,” he stated.
Abubakar’s intervention comes amid growing public debate over the tone of international relations and Nigeria’s response to perceived external pressures. Political analysts say his comments reflect concerns within the country’s diplomatic and security circles about maintaining national cohesion during a sensitive period.
Concluding his remarks, Abubakar reiterated his faith in Nigeria’s resilience and ability to overcome challenges through unity and dialogue. “We have weathered many storms as a nation,” he said. “This is another test of our collective resolve. Let us act with wisdom, speak with one voice, and uphold the dignity of our country.”
