The Peace Corps of Nigeria (PCN) has appealed to the United States Government to adopt diplomacy rather than military intervention in addressing security and human rights concerns in Nigeria.
The National Commandant of the Corps Dr. Dickson A.O. Akoh, made the call on Wednesday 5th, November 2025, during a press briefing on “Security, Leadership and Diplomacy” held at the organization’s headquarters in Abuja.
He was reacting to recent remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump, who reportedly designated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” and threatened possible military action over alleged persecution of Christians in the country.
The Commandant described the comments as “deeply concerning” and urged the U.S. to pursue “peaceful and developmental means” instead of confrontation.
“While the Peace Corps of Nigeria acknowledges the gravity of insecurity affecting citizens of all faiths and ethnic backgrounds, we passionately appeal to Mr. Trump to choose diplomacy and a peaceful approach as the best option in the interest of vulnerable and peaceful Nigerians and foreigners alike,” he said.
He added that military intervention “carries an enormous risk,” nothing that it could “escalate violence and destabilize the very communities it seeks to protect,” potentially worsening the humanitarian situation.
“Nigeria requires collaborative, strategic support, not confrontation,” he added. “The deployment of resources for job creation, education, and peace-building programs represents a far more sustainable path to peace than the deployment of troops.”
The Commandant reaffirmed the Corps’ readiness to work with international partners, including the U.S., through non-kinetic and youth-focused peace-building initiatives aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s internal security.
He also called on the United Nations to intervene diplomatically to prevent escalation of tension between both Nations, noting that the Peace Corps of Nigeria, by virtue of its Special Consultative Status with the UN since 2013, aligns with the global body’s commitment to peace and stability.
“Nigeria is a proud and sovereign nation committed to fundamental freedoms,” he said. “For the sake of all innocent lives, the peace of diplomacy must always be chosen over the trauma of military deployment.”
Earlier in his address, the National Commandant congratulated Nigeria’s newly appointed Service Chiefs — General Olufemi Oluyede (Chief of Defence Staff), Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu (Chief of Army Staff), Rear Admiral Idi Abbas (Chief of Naval Staff), and Air Marshal S.K. Aneke (Chief of Air Staff) — on their appointments by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He commended their service records and expressed optimism that their leadership would strengthen national security in line with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The Peace Corps of Nigeria reiterated its commitment to working with security agencies, Government institutions, and international organizations to promote peace, stability, and youth development across the country.
