In a significant development for Nigeria-U.S. relations, governance expert Temi Okesanjo has delivered crucial strategic advice to American lawmakers during Congressional hearings about Nigeria's designation as a Country of Particular Concern for religious persecution.
Strategic Guidance for Constructive Engagement
The respected crisis management strategist, attending the November 25, 2025 hearing in an independent capacity, outlined how U.S. engagement with Nigeria could become more constructive and evidence-based. Okesanjo emphasized the importance of aligning American support with Nigeria's national priorities while meaningfully incorporating civil society organizations, youth groups, and independent authorities.
According to her professional assessment, the United States can act more effectively by ensuring its support is informed by comprehensive and verified data rather than partial or potentially misrepresented information. This approach would prevent reliance on incomplete narratives and foster more productive bilateral relations.
Congressional Concerns and Unanswered Questions
The Congressional hearing revealed several critical gaps in documentation and follow-through. U.S. lawmakers questioned the rationale behind Nigeria's removal from the CPC list during the previous administration, specifically asking whether evidence-based actions justified that decision.
Congress members also raised serious concerns about the prosecution of major cases, noting that in numerous instances, no prosecutions had been initiated despite documented incidents. This highlighted the urgent need for transparent, verifiable action from the federal government that could withstand international scrutiny.
Okesanjo observed that some questions during the hearing remained substantively unanswered, pointing to potential deficiencies in documentation and implementation follow-through.
Leadership and International Credibility
American legislators stressed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu must demonstrate decisive leadership in addressing Nigeria's security challenges, clearly stating that U.S. assistance depends on Nigeria's active ownership of these issues.
Okesanjo reinforced this position by emphasizing that a coordinated response grounded in empirical data is essential for Nigeria to be taken seriously in international circles. She asserted that Nigeria must balance sovereignty demonstrations with clear accountability and credibility measures.
Her counsel specifically highlighted the need for transparent, evidence-based communication, including detailed records of arrests, prosecutions, and humanitarian interventions. She noted that coordinated federal and state action is critical to comprehensively addressing insecurity while projecting a posture of respect on the global stage.
Proven Track Record in Crisis Management
Temilade Okesanjo brings substantial credibility to these discussions, having previously advised the Nigerian Presidency and government agencies on high-pressure situations. Her experience includes managing the EndSars protests and labor union negotiations under President Tinubu's administration.
She has also introduced significant initiatives such as the Integrity Award in collaboration with the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission. Her engagement in Washington reflects her established expertise in providing impartial, strategic guidance at the intersection of governance, security, and international engagement.
The November hearing represents a crucial moment in Nigeria-U.S. relations, with Okesanjo's input potentially shaping future cooperation frameworks and evidence-based approaches to complex security and human rights challenges.
