CPC: ANPE Urges EU To Restrain Trump, Strengthen Partnership With Nigeria

The Association of Nigerian Professionals in Europe (ANPE) has called on leaders of the European Union (EU) to restrain U.S. President Donald Trump over his recent threats of military action against Nigeria and the redesignation of the country as a “country of particular concern” on alleged grounds of religious persecution.

In a statement, the association urged the EU to adopt a balanced diplomatic approach and deepen its strategic partnership with Nigeria through support for the fight against terrorism, banditry, and insecurity.

Describing Trump’s remarks as “provocative and dangerous,” ANPE warned that such rhetoric could inflame tensions, embolden extremist groups, and undermine Nigeria’s progress in counterterrorism and economic reform.

The statement, signed by ANPE President, Dr. Livinus Chukwuemeka Nwosu, and the association’s Secretary, Mrs. Aisha M. Bello, appealed to the EU to “act with wisdom and restraint” by discouraging any unilateral U.S. action that could destabilise the West African sub-region.

“We call on the European Union, as a global voice of balance and diplomacy, to restrain President Trump from any hostile action or policy escalation against Nigeria. Our country needs constructive engagement, not coercion,” the group stated.

ANPE dismissed attempts to portray Nigeria’s internal security challenges as religious persecution, stressing that terrorism and insurgency have affected both Muslims and Christians. It cautioned against any narrative that could weaponise religion to justify foreign interference.

The association urged the EU to strengthen its cooperation with Nigeria through intelligence sharing, defence partnerships, and joint training initiatives aimed at improving the capacity of local security institutions.

While commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its focus on national security and economic reform, ANPE said European investors in Nigeria’s energy and infrastructure sectors have no reason to fear, citing improved transparency and renewed investor confidence.

“Nigeria’s economic revival depends on stable partnerships, not geopolitical tension. The government is consolidating reforms to enhance accountability, strengthen local content, and attract long-term investment,” the statement added.

The group further described Trump’s recent comments as an “unhelpful distraction” that risks reversing progress in regional peacebuilding. It called on the EU to engage both Washington and Abuja in sustained dialogue to prevent escalation and promote cooperation in stabilising West Africa.

“Europe has always been a trusted partner to Nigeria. We are confident that diplomacy, not division, will guide the global response to Nigeria’s challenges,” the association concluded.