The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has urged President Bola Tinubu to act swiftly and diplomatically in engaging US President Donald Trump following recent threats of possible US military action over alleged persecution of Christians in Nigeria.
Speaking during the November Holy Ghost Service at the Redemption City on Friday, Adeboye advised the president to persuade Trump to delay any action for about 90 days, giving Nigeria time to demonstrate concrete progress in tackling insecurity and terrorism.
Trump had recently directed the US Department of Defence to prepare for “possible action” in Nigeria, accusing the country of failing to end the “killing of Christians” and describing it as a “disgraced country.” The Nigerian government, however, has consistently rejected claims of Christian persecution, describing them as exaggerated and politically motivated.
Adeboye, in his message, warned that the situation required urgent and strategic diplomatic engagement, not confrontation. “If I were asked to make suggestions, I would say to our government: move fast, move diplomatically, move wisely,” he said. “Find a way to convince the president of America to delay his actions for about 100 days — then come home and tell our security chiefs to get rid of these terrorists within 90 days or resign.”
The cleric further called on the federal government to expose the sponsors of terrorism and insurgency, regardless of their influence or political connections, noting that only decisive action could restore Nigeria’s credibility before the international community.
Adeboye also cautioned that Nigeria could not rely on foreign powers for defence if the situation escalated. “When I say our leaders should move fast, diplomatically, and wisely, it’s because if America attacks us, China, Russia, and other world powers will condemn it strongly but that’s all they’ll do. Britain won’t come to help us. No foreign power will,” he warned.
His remarks come amid growing global attention on Nigeria’s security challenges and religious tensions. Earlier this week, China also warned against external interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs following Trump’s comments.
Adeboye concluded his message with a sobering appeal for unity and urgency. “This is not the time for jokes, grammar, or arguments. It’s not about Christians or Muslims — innocent people are dying,” he said, urging national leaders to prioritise human lives over political or religious divisions.
Melissa Enoch
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