The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding every Nigerian, regardless of religious affiliation, following remarks by US President Donald Trump that labeled Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged killings of Christians.
Trump, in a post shared on his Truth Social account on Friday, claimed that Christianity is under existential threat in Nigeria, describing the violence as a “mass slaughter.” He asserted that “Radical Islamists are responsible for this mass slaughter,” and emphasized that the United States “cannot stand by while such atrocities are happening.” Trump also directed Congressman Riley Moore and House Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole to investigate the issue.
Responding to the statement, Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through its spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa, released a statement on Saturday in Abuja reaffirming the nation’s commitment to religious freedom and unity. “The Federal Government has noted the recent statement by the United States of America on religious freedom in Nigeria,” the ministry stated, emphasizing that Nigeria remains steadfast in promoting peace and protecting its citizens.
Ebienfa noted that the Nigerian government is focused on tackling violent extremism, which he said is fueled by special interests that have contributed to instability across West Africa and the Sahel. “We remain committed to our resolve to tackle the violent extremism that is fueled by special interests who have helped drive such decay and division in countries across the intersecting West African and Sahel regions,” the statement read.
He further stressed that Nigeria mourns all victims of violent extremism and continues to support its armed forces in their fight against those responsible. “The Federal Government of Nigeria will continue to defend all citizens, irrespective of race, creed, or religion,” the ministry assured.
Highlighting the country’s dedication to unity and diversity, the government stated that Nigeria remains a “God-fearing nation” that upholds “faith, tolerance, diversity, and inclusion” in line with global democratic values. The statement also emphasized Nigeria’s enduring partnership with the United States, expressing confidence that both countries would continue to share common goals of peace, stability, and democracy.
“The US has been and we trust will always remain a close ally, because the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the Government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will maintain our laser focus and steadfast commitment to all partners who believe in genuine peace, stability, freedom, and democracy,” the ministry concluded.
What You Should Know
The US designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” highlights ongoing tensions surrounding religious violence in the country.
President Donald Trump’s statement accused radical Islamist groups of carrying out mass killings of Christians, sparking international attention. In response, Nigeria’s Federal Government reaffirmed its dedication to protecting all citizens, emphasizing unity, tolerance, and the ongoing fight against extremism.
The government also underscored its strong diplomatic ties with the US, assuring that it remains committed to shared democratic values and the pursuit of peace and stability across the region.
