Former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd.), has cautioned U.S. President Donald Trump against making inflammatory remarks that could endanger Nigeria’s unity and stability.

Speaking from London via telephone, Abdulsalami urged Trump to support Nigeria’s fight against insecurity rather than worsen tensions through divisive statements.

His warning follows Trump’s classification of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged “Christian genocide” and his threat to suspend U.S. aid or “unleash the Department of War” if the Nigerian government fails to act.

The statement has sparked outrage across Nigeria, with political figures and civil society condemning Trump’s remarks as reckless and diplomatically insensitive.

Abdulsalami described Trump’s words as a “grave threat to Nigeria’s hard-won unity,” calling on Nigerians to stay calm and resist divisive narratives.

“Now is the time for Nigerians to close ranks, protect our sovereignty, and engage peacefully with the international community,” he said.

He also appealed to Washington to pursue cooperation rather than confrontation, emphasizing intelligence sharing and diplomacy over punitive threats.

“What Nigeria needs now is partnership and dialogue—not intimidation,” Abdulsalami stressed, urging the Tinubu government to employ quiet diplomacy in handling the matter.