Abuja, Nigeria — Senior Nigerian government officials have accused the United States Mission in Nigeria of engaging in a calculated “smear campaign” that undermines the country’s image and breaches diplomatic protocols.
In a statement made available to journalists in Abuja, top federal sources expressed concern over the U.S. Mission’s circulation of a report by The Africa Report, which portrayed Nigerian leaders as wasteful, highlighting the construction of new government houses in Oyo and Gombe states.
Describing the claims as misleading and unfair, officials defended the integrity of the two state governors mentioned, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo and Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe, lauding their record of fiscal prudence, developmental strides, and effective governance.
“This portrayal is deeply flawed,” one official said. “These governors are known for accountability, not extravagance.”
Beyond the report, authorities alleged that the U.S. Mission’s actions violate Article 41(1) of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, which prohibits foreign diplomats from interfering in the internal affairs of host nations.
Tensions have continued to rise amid other diplomatic flashpoints. Officials recalled past U.S. predictions of Nigeria’s collapse and criticized the recent July 15, 2025 travel advisory which listed 18 Nigerian states as unsafe. Analysts labeled the advisory “alarmist,” noting that thriving cities like Lagos and Abuja were unjustly ignored.
“Nigeria, like any country, has security challenges,” a Nigerian analyst noted. “But issuing broad warnings while ignoring America’s own internal issues, like gun violence, reflects a biased narrative.”
Despite mounting concerns, Nigerian officials reiterated their commitment to a constructive relationship with the United States. However, they warned that mutual respect must guide diplomatic engagement.
“We value our partnership,” said a senior government aide. “But Nigeria’s sovereignty and dignity are non-negotiable. We urge the U.S. Mission to cease the spread of jaundiced narratives and respect diplomatic norms.”
By Makinde oyinkansola| August 3, 2025
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