The recent diplomatic tension sparked by former U.S. President Donald Trump’s scathing remarks on Nigeria has now been placed at the center of a major national political summit scheduled to hold next week in Abuja.
Trump had openly condemned the rising spate of killings and insecurity in Nigeria, describing the country as a “disgraced nation” and hinting at the possibility of a U.S. military intervention. The comments have triggered widespread debate and concern across political and civil society circles.
In response, top Nigerian political figures and governance stakeholders have resolved to use the upcoming National Political Summit as a platform to address the implications of Trump’s remarks and develop a collective national position aimed at safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty and restoring international confidence.
The summit — originally planned to focus on electoral reforms ahead of the 2027 general elections — will now expand its agenda to also address national stability and foreign policy concerns.
Scheduled for Tuesday, 11 November 2025 at NICON Luxury Hotel, Abuja, the event is themed:
“Towards Critical and Mandatory Constitutional Amendments for Credible Elections in 2027.”
Former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan has been invited to chair the summit, while former Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo will deliver the keynote address.
Other prominent figures expected include: Prof Attahiru Jega, Femi Falana, SAN, Olisa Agbakoba, SAN, Dr Oby Ezekwesili, Prof Pat Utomi, Senator Shehu Sani, Dr Usman Bugaje, and Amb. Nkoyo Toyo.
A special session will also feature presidential aspirants across party lines, reinforcing the multi-stakeholder nature of the gathering.
According to the Local Organising Committee (LOC), more than 700 accredited delegates — including state governors, members of the National Assembly, INEC leadership, civil society groups, and the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) — have confirmed participation.
The organisers describe the summit as an urgent national turning point.
“Nigeria must rise above disputed elections, weak institutions, and recurring violence. This summit aims to build national consensus on reforms that will secure credible, transparent and peaceful elections in 2027,” the LOC said.
Civil society groups participating in the summit argue that Nigeria must treat Trump’s comments not as a personal attack, but as a serious warning about the nation’s declining global image due to electoral disputes and governance instability.
They insist that the most strategic response is not outrage or defensiveness, but decisive reforms that restore public trust and strengthen national sovereignty.
The opening session will also invite friendly international partners who have expressed interest in supporting Nigeria’s democratic stability.
Donald Trump is the current president of the United States of America. Not former