The Federal Government of Nigeria has firmly rejected remarks made by U.S. President Donald Trump, who alleged widespread killings of Christians in Nigeria and designated the country as a “Country of Particular Concern.” In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa emphasized that these claims do not accurately reflect the situation in Nigeria.
The government noted that Nigerians of all faiths have coexisted peacefully and that while it appreciates global concerns regarding human rights and religious freedom, the allegations made by Trump are incorrect. Under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, Nigeria remains committed to combating terrorism and promoting interfaith harmony, the statement asserted.
Trump’s comments, shared via a Truth Social post and later on the White House’s social media, described Christianity in Nigeria as facing an “existential threat,” citing alarming statistics. He called for immediate congressional action to address what he termed the systematic persecution of Christians in the country.
In response, Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris reiterated that Nigerian terrorists do not specifically target Christians, but rather attack individuals regardless of their faith. He highlighted the need for accurate reporting of the violence occurring in Nigeria.
The Nigerian government intends to engage constructively with the United States to foster mutual understanding and address ongoing security issues. Meanwhile, the European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs has called for stronger protections for vulnerable communities in Nigeria.
