A fresh wave of diplomatic tension surfaced on Friday as Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka criticised President Donald Trump over his recent threat to deploy American forces to Nigeria.
Soyinka argued that such a stance reveals a troubling disregard for the country’s complex security landscape and the ongoing efforts to stabilise it.
The celebrated writer delivered his remarks shortly after a private discussion with Governor Hyacinth Alia, emphasising that global powers must temper their interventions with understanding rather than bravado.
He cautioned that sweeping declarations from Washington risk deepening hostilities rather than helping communities already battling violence.
He remarked that outside actors should learn to engage Nigerian authorities and civil society rather than issue ultimatums.
“Leadership demands listening,” Soyinka said during the briefing.
“If anyone claims to be a partner, they should at least take time to understand the terrain before announcing military adventures.”
The meeting took place in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, where Soyinka insisted that Nigeria’s sovereignty cannot be brushed aside in the name of external assistance.
Moreover, he argued that the tone of Trump’s threat is inconsistent with diplomatic norms that value consultation and respect.
Soyinka also stressed that the crisis of insecurity is not a theatrical scene to be rescued by foreign firepower.
In his words, “Communities in pain deserve empathy, not headline declarations about invading their homeland. We must allow those working on the ground to continue shaping real solutions.”
The backlash follows Trump’s decision on October 31 to categorise Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged attacks on Christian communities.
The U.S. President later hinted that Pentagon officials had been directed to prepare for a potential intervention if Abuja “continues to allow the killing of Christians.”
Furthermore, the laureate said that while every government bears the duty of safeguarding its citizens, global leaders must avoid language that inflames the very tensions they claim to be addressing.
He insisted that victims of violence need support rooted in understanding, not muscular threats broadcast from abroad.
Soyinka’s comments add a new layer to Nigeria’s conversation on sovereignty, foreign diplomacy, and the delicate struggle to restore security amid rising global scrutiny.