Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Hassan Kukah, has described former U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent remarks on Nigeria as a reflection of the country’s internal challenges, rather than the root cause of its problems.
Speaking in Lagos on Friday during the 60th birthday celebration of journalist and former presidential aide Dr. Reuben Abati, which also featured the launch of three of Abati’s new books, Bishop Kukah urged Nigerians to focus on addressing systemic issues instead of blaming external voices.
Trump had, on October 31, redesignated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged attacks on Christians, warning that the United States could consider military action or suspend aid if the violence continued.
Responding to the designation, Bishop Kukah said the U.S. leader’s comments should be seen as a wake-up call.
The bishop highlighted institutional weakness, poor values, and a lack of cohesive national vision as the key challenges facing the country, noting that these structural issues contribute to chaos and social tension.
He also lamented the absence of national symbols, monuments, and respected statesmen, saying these gaps reflect Nigeria’s fractured identity.
Bishop Kukah concluded by calling for a fundamental national reset, urging citizens and leaders alike to rebuild Nigeria on values of integrity, unity, and vision.
