United States President Donald Trump has had a complicated and sometimes tense relationship with Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation.
From diplomatic interactions and security partnerships to controversial remarks and threats of military involvement, Trump’s engagements with Nigeria have drawn global attention.
Below are five significant instances:
1. 2017 — Phone Call With Then-President Muhammadu Buhari On Security Cooperation
Shortly after assuming office, Trump held a phone conversation with President Muhammadu Buhari, expressing America’s readiness to assist Nigeria in combating Boko Haram and other extremist organisations destabilising the country.
The discussion reflected continuity in the relationship between both nations, especially in the area of counter-terrorism, at a time when insurgent attacks were widespread in Nigeria’s northeast.
Both leaders reportedly discussed intelligence exchange, military support, and ways to strengthen diplomatic cooperation.
2. 2018 — Buhari Becomes First Sub-Saharan African Leader Received By Trump
In April 2018, Buhari became the first sub-Saharan African head of state to visit the White House under Trump’s administration.
The visit highlighted US–Nigeria ties, with both presidents emphasising their shared interests in fighting terrorism, promoting trade, and encouraging American investments in Nigeria’s energy industry.
Trump commended Buhari’s stance against corruption but urged for deeper economic reforms to strengthen bilateral trade.
This engagement reaffirmed Nigeria’s status as a key diplomatic and security partner for the United States in Africa.
3. 2018 — The “Shithole Countries” Remark
In the same year, reports surfaced that Trump had referred to African nations — including Nigeria — as “shithole countries” during a private immigration discussion with US legislators.
The offensive statement triggered widespread condemnation worldwide, especially across Africa, where political leaders, civil society groups, and journalists denounced the comment as racist and deeply insulting.
Although the White House denied Trump used those words, the controversy strained relations between the US and African nations and reinforced perceptions of the Trump administration’s disregard for the continent.
4. 2019 — Imposition Of Travel Ban On Nigerians
In 2019, Trump’s government expanded its existing travel ban to include Nigeria, citing issues relating to national security vetting and inadequate information-sharing systems.
This restriction affected specific immigration categories, particularly Nigerians seeking permanent residence in the United States.
The decision caused diplomatic tension and sparked outrage at home, considering Nigeria’s large population in the US and its influence as Africa’s biggest economy.
While critics saw the move as discriminatory, supporters defended it as necessary for protecting US security.
5. 2025 — Threats Of US Military Intervention In Nigeria
In a recent statement, Trump hinted that the United States might conduct military operations — including the deployment of troops or airstrikes — in Nigeria over alleged killings of Christians.
His comments attracted criticism within Nigeria, with several analysts insisting that religious violence in the country affects both Muslims and Christians.
Nigerian authorities dismissed Trump’s remarks, affirming the country’s sovereignty and cautioning against foreign interference.
