Trump Pressures Tinubu on Terror Prosecutions, Protection for Christians

The United States has called on the Federal Government to strengthen the prosecution of terrorism cases, improve protection for Christian communities and increase efforts to return internally displaced persons to their homes.

The call came during the visit of the U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Frank Garcia, to Abuja, where he held meetings with senior Nigerian government officials as part of efforts to deepen cooperation between both countries in security, justice, technology, trade and regional peace.

According to the U.S. Embassy, Garcia met with Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Sola Enikanolaiye, Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, Attorney-General and Minister of Justice Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, Minister of Communications Bosun Tijani and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.

During discussions on defence and security matters, Garcia welcomed Nigeria’s efforts under the U.S.-Nigeria Joint Working Group aimed at addressing issues connected to the country’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern.

The American official also urged the administration of President Bola Tinubu to take stronger action to protect Christians from attacks and devote more resources to ensuring that people displaced by violence can safely return to their communities.

The discussions also covered terrorism prosecutions, criminal accountability and the protection of religious freedom. Garcia is expected to participate in the next meeting of the U.S.-Nigeria Joint Working Group scheduled to take place in Washington, D.C., in August, where progress on the agreed areas will be reviewed.

Garcia’s meeting with Communications Minister Bosun Tijani focused on expanding opportunities for American investment and increasing the participation of U.S. private companies in Nigeria’s economy.

The U.S. official also held talks with executives from leading American energy and technology firms on Nigeria’s business environment and potential investment opportunities, as part of efforts to strengthen economic ties between both countries.