The return of U.S. President Donald Trump to the White House has caused a stir worldwide, with many concerned about the potential for political and economic instability. During his campaign, Trump vowed to take swift action by signing over 100 executive orders on his first day in office, targeting key issues such as immigration, climate change, foreign policy, and pardons.
True to his promise, Trump signed these orders on his first day, despite the fact that, according to the U.S. Constitution, succeeding presidents have the power to overturn these decisions or challenge them in court. While some of these executive orders are expected to face legal challenges, others are poised to have significant impacts on countries like Nigeria and the broader African continent.
Here are five executive orders that could particularly affect Nigeria:
1. Withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO)
Trump’s decision to pull the U.S. out of the WHO, citing its poor handling of the coronavirus pandemic, could reverse gains made in the fight against diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS, which disproportionately affect Nigeria and other African nations.
2. Ending Birthright Citizenship
This controversial order aims to deny U.S. citizenship to children born on U.S. soil to parents who are in the country illegally or on temporary visas. The legality of this order remains uncertain, as birthright citizenship is enshrined in the U.S. Constitution.
3. Withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement
The Paris Climate Agreement is a global pact designed to address climate change. Trump’s decision to withdraw, which could limit funds for developing countries fighting climate change, might reduce financial support for Nigeria and other nations facing environmental challenges. Although Trump withdrew the U.S. from the agreement in 2017, President Joe Biden reversed this action in 2022.
4. Suspension of Foreign Aid Programs
Trump’s “America First” policy led to a temporary suspension of U.S. foreign assistance programs, as a review of their alignment with the administration’s goals was ordered. This could have a substantial impact on aid-dependent nations like Nigeria, which relies heavily on foreign aid for development.
5. Suspension of Refugee Resettlement Programs
This executive order aims to pause the refugee resettlement program that has provided safety for individuals fleeing violence and persecution. Trump justified the suspension by stating the need to align the program with U.S. interests, a move that could affect vulnerable populations globally, including those in Nigeria.
These executive actions reflect a broader shift in U.S. foreign policy that could have lasting effects on both international relations and domestic issues worldwide.
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