A Kano-based lawyer and concerned Nigerian citizen, Hadiza Nasir Ahmad, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to strengthen Nigeria’s diplomatic relations and protect the country’s global image following remarks by the U.S. President suggesting that Christianity faces an “existential threat” in Nigeria.
In an open letter to President Tinubu, Ahmad described the U.S. statement as unsettling, saying it should not provoke outrage but rather inspire a strategic, wise, and dignified response from the Nigerian government.
“Diplomacy is not about reacting in anger but responding with truth, wisdom, and dignity,” she wrote.
Ahmad noted that Nigeria is not a country divided by religion but one united by shared humanity and peaceful coexistence.
“Nigeria is not a land of religious war. We are a people of faith — many faiths — who share the same roads, markets, schools, and dreams,” she said. “The violence that has troubled our nation is not a fight between Christians and Muslims; it is the handiwork of extremists, criminals, and opportunists who exploit our diversity for their own gain.”
She called on the Tinubu administration to project Nigeria’s true image through stronger diplomatic representation in key world capitals such as Washington, London, Paris, Berlin, and Tokyo, noting that Nigeria’s voice must be heard clearly and proudly.
“When our ambassadors speak, they must not only represent our policies but also tell our human story — that of a nation that has chosen coexistence over chaos,” she stated.
Ahmad emphasized that Nigeria’s foreign policy should prioritize constructive engagement over confrontation, saying: “True diplomacy is not about pride; it is about clarity. We must explain our situation factually and calmly, showing that Nigeria remains committed to protecting every life, every community, and every faith.”
She commended President Tinubu for declaring a state of emergency on the nation’s security training institutions, describing it as a bold and forward-looking reform.
“It was a bold step — one that recognises that security begins with capacity, not slogans. Through such reforms, our frontline personnel will be better trained, better equipped, and better motivated to serve with honour,” she added.
Ahmad further urged the government to align its diplomatic conduct with international law and global conventions, including the UN Charter and the Vienna Convention, to strengthen Nigeria’s credibility abroad.
“When we act lawfully, we disarm false narratives. When we act justly, we earn respect — not by demanding it, but by deserving it,” she noted.
Concluding her letter, Ahmad expressed optimism that Nigeria would overcome global misperceptions through calm, principled, and visionary leadership.
“The world is watching Nigeria not as a failing nation, but as a nation at a crossroads,” she said. “Let our story be told not through others, but through our own voices — proud, balanced, and truthful.”