Minister appeals for calm, unity over US-Nigeria face-off

By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano

The Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Abdullahi Yusuf Ata, has called on all Nigerians, particularly citizens of the Northern region, to remain calm, prayerful, and united in the face of the recent diplomatic tension between the United States of America (USA) and Nigeria over alleged human rights violations and perceived religious persecution of Christians in the country, alleged by President Donald Trump.

Speaking to reporters shortly after his return from the Lesser Hajj in Saudi Arabia at the Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) on Saturday, the Minister expressed deep concern over the tone and sentiments emanating from both within and outside the country.

He warned against the escalation of rhetoric or actions that could inflame existing divisions, urging Northern Nigerians to avoid provocative or inciting statements capable of worsening the fragile peace in parts of the country.

Ata appealed to religious leaders—both Islamic clerics and Christian clergy, to rise above sectarian narratives and instead commit themselves to fervent prayers for the peace, unity, and progress of Nigeria.

He emphasized that what the country needs at the moment, “is collective faith, restraint, and patriotic support for the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who continues to demonstrate unwavering commitment to steering the country through its present challenges.

“We must not allow external narratives or political misinterpretations to divide us as a people. Nigeria’s strength has always been in her diversity and her ability to overcome trials through dialogue, faith, and understanding.

“I call on all Nigerians, especially, in the North, to maintain calm and confidence that this situation will pass. We must support our President with prayers and goodwill as he works tirelessly for a better and stronger nation.”

Ata further reassured President Tinubu of the unwavering loyalty and support of the Northern populace during what he described as a defining period in the country’s democratic journey.

He expressed optimism that Nigeria, despite her current difficulties, will overcome every challenge and emerge more united and prosperous.

He concluded by reiterating that peace, dialogue, and tolerance remain the surest path towards sustainable national development, urging all citizens to channel their energy towards rebuilding faith in the nation’s institutions and leadership.

“This is not the time for despair or division. This is the time to believe in Nigeria again, to pray for our leaders, and to work together for the peace and progress of our beloved country,” he added.