5 Donald Trump Orders That Could Affect Nigerians

Donald Trump, the 47th President of the United States, took office with an agenda that included many big decisions. On his first day in office, he signed over 200 executive orders, which are rules that have the same power as laws. 

Some of these orders were aimed at changing how the U.S. interacts with the world, and some have the potential to impact countries like Nigeria. Though these orders can be challenged in court or undone by future presidents, some may still have lasting effects. Let’s look at five orders from Donald Trump that could affect Nigerians.

Withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO)

One of Trump’s most talked-about orders was his decision to pull the U.S. out of the World Health Organization (WHO). He believed that WHO mismanaged the COVID-19 crisis and was too influenced by China. This move was significant because WHO plays a major role in global health efforts. 

For Nigeria and many other African nations, WHO has been crucial in fighting diseases like malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS. If the U.S. withdraws, it could hurt the global effort to address these diseases. Nigeria, where these health challenges are a big concern, might feel the effects in terms of funding and support for health programs.

Ending Birthright Citizenship

Another controversial order from Trump aimed at ending birthright citizenship for children born in the U.S. to parents who are in the country illegally or on temporary visas. This issue has been hotly debated in America because birthright citizenship is a part of the U.S. Constitution. 

If this order were to be carried out, it could affect many African families, including Nigerians, who live in the U.S. on temporary visas. For Nigerians who are trying to have children in the U.S. as a way to secure citizenship, this order could change their plans.

Pulling Out of the Paris Climate Agreement

Climate change is a big issue for Nigeria and many African countries, which face challenges like rising temperatures, droughts, and flooding. In 2017, Trump decided to pull the U.S. out of the Paris Climate Agreement, a global pact to reduce carbon emissions and fight climate change. 

This decision angered many countries, including Nigeria, which relies on international support to tackle climate issues. The U.S. rejoined the agreement under President Joe Biden in 2022, but Trump’s decision to leave had already caused tension and may have slowed progress in the fight against climate change.

Stopping Foreign Aid Programs

As part of his “America First” policy, Trump ordered a review of all U.S. foreign assistance programs. He wanted to make sure that the aid sent to other countries aligned with U.S. interests. 

This review led to a temporary halt in foreign aid, affecting countries like Nigeria, which rely on U.S. support for various programs. The suspension could have delayed or disrupted important programs related to health, education, and infrastructure in Nigeria.

Suspending Refugee Resettlement Programs

Trump also moved to suspend refugee resettlement programs. This order stopped the U.S. from taking in refugees from many countries, including Nigeria, where conflict and violence have caused many people to flee their homes. 

The suspension affected Nigerians and others who were hoping to resettle in the U.S. for safety. This policy was based on the belief that the U.S. should prioritize its own citizens first, but it meant that many people in desperate need of protection were left without options.