Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Other Prominent Nigerians Discuss U.S. President’s Executive Orders

Prominent figures such as WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, former Nigerian High Commissioner to Botswana Prof. Alaba Ogunsanwo, NIIA Director-General Prof. Eghosa Osaghae, former Vice-Chancellor of Federal University Oye-Ekiti Prof. ...CONTINUE READING>>>

Kayode Soremekun, former Nigerian Ambassador to France Akin Fayomi, and NIIA Director of Studies Prof. Efem Ubi, have commented on U.S. President Donald Trump’s executive orders in an interview with The Nation. Their remarks explored the implications and potential effects of these policies.

According to report from The Nation, speaking at the 2025 World Economic Forum in Davos, Okonjo-Iweala urged WTO member-states to remain calm amid the evolving situation. She emphasized the importance of analyzing actual policy implementations before overreacting, stating, “Let’s see what policies are actually enacted and implemented before we get overexcited.”

Prof. Eghosa Osaghae highlighted that these executive orders are specific to the U.S. and should not concern Nigerians or other non-citizens. He noted that those living illegally in the U.S. must understand the consequences of their actions, saying, “Anybody who wants to do business with the U.S. must adapt to their laws.”

Prof. Alaba Ogunsanwo described the executive orders as internal American matters. He explained that U.S. policies, including executive orders, can be legally challenged or overturned, noting that the issue should not significantly affect Nigerians.

Ambassador Fayomi considered it premature to assess Trump’s policies, particularly on birthright citizenship. He pointed out that any change would require constitutional amendments and predicted significant legal challenges. Fayomi also distinguished between legal immigrants and those residing unlawfully, emphasizing the importance of due process in identifying criminal elements.

Prof. Soremekun viewed the policy as potentially causing economic disruptions due to immigrants’ contributions to low-paying jobs. He suggested it might indirectly encourage better governance in Nigeria, as fewer Nigerians may seek refuge abroad.

Prof. Efem Ubi referred to the birthright citizenship policy as an internal U.S. issue. He noted that Nigerians had adjusted to similar policies in the UK and predicted that Trump’s order would face legal challenges. Ubi criticized the policy for undermining the U.S.’s liberal image and termed it “international hypocrisy.”

The experts collectively urged a wait-and-see approach, emphasizing that the policies are primarily U.S.-centric and should not provoke undue concern among Nigerians.