Cruz Condemns Nigeria’s Lobbying Strategy, Questions Security Response
United States Senator Ted Cruz has criticised the Nigerian government over its decision to hire a lobbying firm to improve its image in Washington, arguing that the move seeks to divert attention from ongoing concerns about insecurity and attacks on Christian communities.
Cruz expressed disappointment over Nigeria's reported $9 million lobbying contract with a US-based public affairs firm, saying the government should focus on addressing the country's security challenges instead of investing in public relations efforts abroad.
The senator maintained that American lawmakers remain concerned about violence affecting Christians and other religious minorities in Nigeria. He also welcomed recent action by the US House of Representatives to support stricter measures that could suspend American assistance to Nigeria unless stronger steps are taken to tackle insecurity.
According to Cruz, improving security and protecting vulnerable communities should take precedence over image management campaigns.
Meanwhile, former APC Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Timi Frank, accused the Presidency of exaggerating the significance of a reported letter from US President Donald Trump.
Frank argued that the correspondence appeared to be a routine diplomatic communication acknowledging cooperation on security issues rather than an endorsement of President Bola Tinubu or his administration.
He challenged the government to make the letter public to confirm its authenticity, insisting that if it represented a major diplomatic endorsement, it would have been released immediately.
Frank also questioned reports that the Federal Government spent millions of dollars on lobbying activities in the United States, arguing that governments with strong international credibility should rely on transparent governance and accountability rather than expensive public relations campaigns.
He added that a nation's reputation is built through good leadership, democratic values and public trust, rather than diplomatic letters or lobbying efforts abroad.
#UTVAfrica#
