Nigeria has rejected comments by United States President Donald Trump alleging widespread killings of Christians in the country and placing Nigeria on a list of Countries of Particular Concern.
In a statement responding to the U.S. President’s remarks, the Federal Government said the claims “do not reflect the situation on the ground,” insisting that Nigeria remains committed to protecting citizens of all faiths.
“Nigeria notes the recent remarks by U.S. President Donald J. Trump alleging large-scale killings of Christians in Nigeria and calling for the country’s designation as a ‘Country of Particular Concern,’” the statement read.
“While Nigeria appreciates global concern for human rights and religious freedom, these claims do not reflect the situation on the ground.
“Nigerians of all faiths have long lived, worked, and worshipped together peacefully,” it added.
The government stressed that under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the state continues to fight insecurity and promote unity.
“Under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria remains committed to fighting terrorism, strengthening interfaith harmony, and protecting the lives and rights of all its people.”
It further noted that Abuja intends to maintain diplomatic engagement with Washington.
“Nigeria will continue to engage constructively with the Government of the United States to deepen mutual understanding of regional dynamics and the country’s ongoing peace and security efforts.”
President Trump earlier issued a strong statement raising concern over religious violence. “Christianity is facing an existential threat in Nigeria.
Thousands of Christians are being killed. Radical Islamists are responsible for this mass slaughter. I am hereby making Nigeria a ‘COUNTRY OF PARTICULAR CONCERN,’” he declared.
He warned that Washington would not look away. “When Christians, or any such group, is slaughtered like is happening in Nigeria… something must be done! The United States cannot stand by while such atrocities are happening,” he said, adding that the U.S. stands “ready, willing, and able to save our Great Christian population around the World.”
Trump directed lawmakers to act on the matter, stating, “I am asking Congressman Riley Moore, together with Chairman Tom Cole and the House Appropriations Committee, to immediately look into this matter, and report back to me.”
