ABUJA, Nigeria (FN) — The Federal Government announced Monday that its recent diplomatic disagreement with the United States has been largely resolved following sustained engagement between both countries.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, disclosed this at a year-end news conference in Abuja. He explained that the tension arose after U.S. President Donald Trump alleged mass killings of Christians in Nigeria and threatened possible military intervention.
According to Idris, Nigeria handled the situation with maturity and principle, leading to a stronger relationship with Washington. “The recent diplomatic spat with the United States has been largely resolved through a firm, respectful engagement culminating in a strengthened partnership between America and Nigeria,” he said.
As evidence of improved ties, Idris pointed to a newly signed bilateral health cooperation agreement. Nigeria and the United States recently concluded a five-year Memorandum of Understanding valued at $5.1 billion to strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system.
Under the deal, the United States will provide 2.1 billion Dollars in grant funding, while Nigeria will commit 3 billion Dollars. Idris described the agreement as the largest co-investment by any country under the America First Global Health Strategy.
He said the partnership would improve healthcare delivery, save lives, and attract additional investment into the country. Idris added that concerns about a breakdown in Nigeria–U.S. relations were unfounded.
The minister stressed that Nigeria is increasingly asserting itself as a confident and strategic partner on the global stage, actively defending its national interests while fostering beneficial international partnerships.
On diplomatic representation, Idris confirmed that Nigeria’s newly appointed ambassadors will assume duty in their respective countries in 2026 after clearance and confirmation by the National Assembly. He noted that their deployment would further strengthen Nigeria’s bilateral relations and enhance international engagement.
Observers say the resolution of the dispute underscores Nigeria’s balancing act between defending sovereignty and maintaining strategic alliances. Civil society groups have urged the government to remain vigilant in addressing human rights concerns while leveraging partnerships for development.
The controversy began when President Trump declared Nigeria a “country of particular concern” in response to allegations of a Christian genocide. The Federal Government’s firm response and subsequent negotiations appear to have restored confidence in the bilateral relationship.
