TD ABUJA, Nigeria — Nigerian cleric, public intellectual and nation builder, Pastor Bolaji O. Akinyemi, has written an open letter to United States President Donald J. Trump.
Pastor Akinyemi urged the U.S. leader to continue promoting democratic values while remaining neutral in Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
In the letter addressed to the White House in Washington, D.C., Akinyemi congratulated President Trump on his leadership and described his presidency as one that has reshaped political discourse and governance globally.
According to him, regardless of differing opinions about Trump’s leadership style, it would remain a significant subject of academic and historical study.
Akinyemi also disclosed that he recently authored a book titled “Global Leadership Code: Donald J. Trump As A Case Study,” examining what he described as the leadership principles, strengths and disruptive political style associated with the American president.
He said five complimentary copies of the book had been mailed to Trump’s office as a gesture of respect and intellectual engagement.
Akinyemi reflected on Trump’s controversial 2018 description of some nations, including Nigeria, as a “shithole” country.
He said that although the remark offended many Nigerians, it inadvertently sparked important conversations about the country’s governance and the responsibility of both leaders and citizens to rebuild the nation.
He also referenced the previous designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern, saying it drew international attention to the challenges of insecurity, terrorism and religious violence while underscoring the need for greater accountability in protecting citizens.
The cleric further commended the growing security cooperation between Nigeria and the United States, particularly efforts aimed at combating terrorism, describing such partnerships as vital to defending peace, security and human dignity.
Highlighting his work through the Apostolic Round Table, Akinyemi said the initiative seeks to promote responsible citizenship, democratic development and Christian engagement with national issues.
He stressed that the Church should champion righteousness, justice, integrity and servant leadership rather than partisan politics.
As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections, he argued that the Church’s responsibility is to promote electoral integrity and encourage citizens to judge democracy by whether elections are free, fair, transparent and credible rather than by who eventually wins.
Akinyemi also expressed concern over recent diplomatic exchanges between the United States and the Nigerian Government.
He noted that while engagement between sovereign nations is expected, such interactions should not be interpreted as endorsements of any administration or political outcome.
He appealed to President Trump to continue supporting universal democratic principles, including the rule of law, respect for human rights, strong institutions and credible elections.
“Our earnest desire is simple: that the will of the Nigerian people should prevail,” Akinyemi wrote, adding that whoever emerges as Nigeria’s next president should do so solely through the freely expressed choice of the electorate.
He concluded by expressing hope that the international community would continue encouraging democratic values in emerging democracies, while praying for stronger ties between Nigeria and the United States and for Nigeria to become a secure, prosperous and truly democratic nation.
The letter was signed by Citizen Bolaji O. Akinyemi, President of Voice of His Word Ministries, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Project Victory Call (PVC-Naija), and Convener of the Apostolic Round Table.
