The Federal Government has announced that its recent diplomatic disagreement with the United States has been largely resolved, following constructive engagement between both countries.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made this known on Monday, December 22, while speaking to journalists at a year-end press conference in Abuja. The disagreement arose after former U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly threatened possible military intervention over alleged mass killings of Christians in Nigeria.
According to Idris, the issue was addressed through firm and respectful dialogue, resulting in a renewed and stronger partnership between Nigeria and the United States.
“The recent diplomatic spat with the United States has been largely resolved through a firm, respectful engagement, culminating in a strengthened partnership between America and Nigeria,” he said.
He noted that Nigeria handled the situation with maturity and principle, adding that developments in 2025 showed the country’s capacity to manage complex international relations without compromising its national interests.
The minister also pointed to recent bilateral agreements between both countries, particularly in the health sector. He revealed that Nigeria recently signed a five-year, $5.1 billion health cooperation Memorandum of Understanding with the U.S. government.
Under the agreement, the United States will contribute $2.1 billion in grant funding, while Nigeria will commit $3 billion. Idris described the deal as the largest co-investment by any country under the America First Global Health Strategy, saying it would strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system, save lives, and attract additional investments.
He dismissed claims that Nigeria–U.S. relations had weakened, stressing that the partnership is now stronger than before.
“Those who believed Nigeria’s relationship with the U.S. was deteriorating can now see that our ties are even stronger,” he said.
Idris emphasized that Nigeria is increasingly asserting itself as a confident and strategic global partner, capable of defending its interests while building mutually beneficial alliances.
On diplomatic appointments, the minister disclosed that Nigeria’s newly appointed ambassadors will assume duty in their respective countries in 2026, following clearance and confirmation by the National Assembly.
He said their deployment would further boost Nigeria’s bilateral relations, global presence, and strategic engagement internationally.
“In 2026, our newly appointed ambassadors will take up their posts in their countries of assignment after clearance and confirmation by the National Assembly,” he added.
