The Nigerian government has rejected its inclusion by the United States as a “country of particular concern” over alleged violations of religious freedom, describing the move as misinformed and based on faulty data.
Last week, former U.S. President Donald Trump placed Nigeria back on Washington’s list of nations accused of religious freedom violations and, on Saturday, reportedly directed the U.S. Department of Defense to prepare for possible “fast” military action if Nigeria failed to address the killing of Christians.
The decision has strained diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Minister: U.S. Threats Unwarranted, Based on False Narrative
At a press briefing, Information Minister Mohammed Idris dismissed Trump’s comments, calling the threats of military intervention unwarranted and a misrepresentation of Nigeria’s complex security situation.
“Any narrative suggesting that the Nigerian state is failing to take action against religious attacks is based on misinformation or faulty data,” Idris stated.
Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, added that the country is battling terrorism, not religious persecution, and reiterated that the government welcomes U.S. assistance in combating insurgents—provided Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity are respected.
Idris emphasized that President Bola Tinubu’s administration has made notable progress in tackling terrorism since assuming office in May 2023.
“The Government of Nigeria remains open and willing to work closely with the United States, other friendly nations, and partners to achieve our shared goal — the total eradication of terrorism on Nigerian soil,” he said.
According to the minister, Nigerian forces have killed more than 13,500 militants, arrested over 17,000 suspects, and rescued more than 11,200 hostages, including women and children.
He stressed that terrorism affects both Christians and Muslims, and that the government is committed to ending extremist violence through a combination of military operations, regional cooperation, and international dialogue.
Nigeria—home to over 200 ethnic groups practicing Christianity, Islam, and traditional faiths—has long been a model of religious coexistence, though it continues to face sporadic violence driven largely by ethnic tensions and competition over scarce resources.
