U.S. President Donald Trump will host leaders from five African nations in Washington next week to explore what the White House described as “commercial opportunities.”
The meeting, set for July 9 at the White House, will include discussions and a lunch with leaders from Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mauritania, and Senegal, according to a White House official.
“President Trump believes that African countries offer incredible commercial opportunities that benefit both the American people and our African partners,” the official said, explaining the motivation behind the gathering.
Earlier reports by Africa Intelligence and Semafor indicated the Trump administration would hold a broader summit with these countries from July 9 to 11.
Under Trump’s leadership, the U.S. has significantly cut foreign aid to Africa, arguing that much of it is wasteful and does not align with his “America First” agenda. Instead, the administration says it aims to prioritize trade and investment that foster mutual prosperity.
On Tuesday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio underscored this shift, announcing that Washington was moving away from what he called a charity-driven aid model and would instead support nations that show “both the ability and willingness to help themselves.”
Troy Fitrel, a senior official in the Bureau of African Affairs, said in May that U.S. diplomats on the continent will now be evaluated based on commercial agreements secured, outlining it as the cornerstone of America’s new engagement strategy in Africa.
Nigerians have taken to social media to react to the news of Trump ignoring Tinubu. One Jadevineautos wrote; “rump means Business! It’s a very strong message! There’s absolutely nothing happening in Nigeria that they do not know. Our politicians need to wake up and get serious.”
One Oluwakay7 wrote, “Another big opportunity missed bcs of Una drug dealer president. They keep coming for my father.”
One bellali_omaa wrote: “The invited leaders are; President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema (Gabon), President Umaro Sissoco Embaló (Guinea-Bissau) President Joseph Nyuma Boakai (Liberia) President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani (Mauritania) President Bassirou Diomaye Faye (Senegal) Noticeably absent? Nigeria. Africa’s largest democracy (on paper). But let’s be honest, with the staggering levels of corruption, a controversial election marred by irregularities, and a president who rose to power under a cloud of allegations and backdoor dealings, it’s no surprise. No world leader with integrity wants to shake hands with a man whose rule reeks of dictatorship. This isn’t just diplomatic, it’s symbolic. The world is watching.”
one queeposh3 wrote, “Tinubu will go n sell our resources to the Americans in exchange for power to win the 2027 election”