The Federal Government of Nigeria has strongly rejected the remarks by United States President Donald Trump, who alleged large-scale killings of Christians in Nigeria and declared the country a “Country of Particular Concern.”
In a statement signed by Mr Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on Saturday, the government said Trump’s comments were misleading and failed to reflect the true situation in the country.
According to the ministry, Nigerians of all faiths have long lived, worked, and worshipped together peacefully, despite the challenges posed by insecurity in some parts of the nation.
“These claims do not reflect the situation on the ground,” the statement read, stressing that the Federal Government remains committed to promoting religious tolerance, protecting the lives and rights of all citizens, and upholding interfaith harmony.
It added that while Nigeria appreciates global concern for human rights and religious freedom, the government views the allegation of “Christian genocide” as inaccurate and potentially damaging to the country’s international image.
The statement reaffirmed that under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the administration has intensified efforts to combat terrorism and other violent crimes while engaging constructively with the United States to deepen understanding of regional peace and security dynamics.
President Trump had, on Friday night, announced on his Truth Social handle—later reposted on the official White House X account—that he had designated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern,” citing what he described as an existential threat to Christianity.
“Christianity is facing an existential threat in Nigeria. Thousands of Christians are being killed. Radical Islamists are responsible for this mass slaughter,” Trump claimed, calling on key members of Congress to take immediate action.
Meanwhile, the European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs, during a press briefing in Abuja earlier in the week, also called for stronger protection of vulnerable communities and greater accountability in addressing violence across Nigeria.
