The Federal Government says the recent strain in relations with the United States has been substantially eased after sustained high‑level engagement between both countries.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, gave the assurance on Monday, December 22, at a year‑end press briefing in Abuja.
He said the tension followed remarks by US President Donald Trump, who had alleged mass killings of Christians in Nigeria and hinted at possible military action.
According to Idris, Abuja responded in a measured but firm manner that ultimately improved, rather than damaged, ties with Washington.
“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,” the minister said.
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As evidence of the reset, he pointed to a new health‑sector pact between both countries. Idris disclosed that Nigeria and the US have signed a five‑year Memorandum of Understanding worth 5.1 billion dollars to bolster Nigeria’s healthcare system.
Under the deal, the US government is to provide 2.1 billion dollars in grants, while Nigeria will commit 3 billion dollars. Idris described the arrangement as “the largest co-investment by any country under the America First Global Health Strategy.”
He said the agreement is expected to improve health services, save lives and draw additional investment into the sector, adding that it confirms fears of a full breakdown in Nigeria–US relations were “unfounded.”
The minister stressed that Nigeria is increasingly positioning itself as “a confident and strategic partner” on the global stage, capable of defending its interests while building constructive international partnerships.
First Daily had earlier reported that President Donald Trump designated Nigeria a “country of particular concern” over allegations of a Christian genocide, a move that helped trigger the recent diplomatic friction.