Olusegun Ariyo
Presidential spokesman, Sunday Dare, has called for the strengthening of Nigeria’s long-standing relationship with the United States, saying the ties between both nations are “treasured, warm and robust,”.
Dare, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Public Communications, told Newsmax TV in Washington, DC, that renewed US engagement is essential, especially at a time when global and regional security threats are evolving.
Dare also emphasised that Nigeria remains a committed partner to the US, led by a president who deeply understands American institutions and values. He pointed out that President Tinubu studied in Chicago, worked in one of America’s leading accounting firms and has long been familiar with US policy approaches to development, peace and security across global regions.
However, Dare strongly rejected the narrative that the country is experiencing a religious war or a state-sanctioned targeting of Christian communities.
He said, “Such claims are a misrepresentation of the realities on the ground”.
He stressed that Nigerians of all faiths suffer from the violence perpetrated by extremist groups, and that there is no deliberate state policy against any religious group. The spokesman also explained that the conflict has evolved over the past 15 years, with Boko Haram splintering into factions such as ISWAP and other groups involved in banditry and kidnapping, all driven largely by transnational forces rather than religious motives.
Speaking on factors fuelling violence across Nigeria and the wider West African sub-region, Dare highlighted the instability in the Sahel region, the collapse of Libya, the influx of arms across porous borders and the presence of ungoverned spaces exploited by internationally financed terror networks.
He explained that a stronger American media and diplomatic presence in Nigeria would help Washington gain a clearer, more accurate understanding of developments within the country.
He noted that reopening the Voice of America office in Abuja would be particularly useful because real-time reporting from Nigeria would offer comprehensive analysis and diverse viewpoints that shape informed policy decisions in the United States.
Dare said the partnership between the Us and Nigeria remained strong through successive governments, including during the administration of President Donald Trump.
He recalled significant American support during Nigeria’s ECOMOG interventions in Liberia and Sierra Leone and noted that since the country’s return to democracy 27 years ago, the diplomatic relationship has remained warm, cordial and mutually beneficial.
“Nigeria’s adoption of the American presidential system further deepens the connection, alongside strong bilateral trade, energy cooperation and the significant contributions of Nigerian professionals in the United States.” Dare emphasised.
He noted that in areas such as trade, education and cultural exchange, the partnership between both countries continues to thrive.
“As global instability increases, Nigeria and the United States must reinvigorate their engagement, maintain open communication channels and sustain a relationship built on decades of shared values, cooperation and strategic interests.” Dare stressed.
