The Nigerian government has dismissed former U.S. President Donald Trump’s claim that Christians are being persecuted in the country, insisting that violence affects people of all faiths.
Trump recently threatened military action against Nigeria, alleging that Christians were being killed without government intervention. He warned that the U.S. could suspend aid if the killings continue.
In response, Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the government does not condone violence of any kind and that the killings are carried out by terrorist groups such as Boko Haram and ISIL, who target everyone regardless of religion.
“There is no Christian genocide in Nigeria,” said Foreign Affairs spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa. “The killing of any Nigerian is a loss to the country, and our government is firmly against it.”
The presidency added that while the U.S. is welcome to assist in combating terrorism, Nigeria’s sovereignty must be respected. Presidential aide Daniel Bwala expressed optimism that cooperation between both countries could lead to better results in fighting extremism.
President Bola Tinubu also defended Nigeria’s record on religious tolerance, saying his administration actively engages both Christian and Muslim leaders to promote peace and security nationwide.
Experts and analysts agree that Trump’s statements misrepresent the complex reality of Nigeria’s security crisis. Conflicts driven by extremist groups in the northeast have affected both Muslims and Christians for over a decade.
Humanitarian lawyer Bulama Bukarti described the “Christian genocide” narrative as misleading and dangerous, warning that such rhetoric could deepen division in an already fragile society. “These groups don’t target people based on religion — they attack everyone,” he said.
Similarly, analyst Ebenezer Obadare urged international cooperation rather than confrontation. “This is the time for support, not invasion,” he noted, emphasizing that undermining Nigeria’s authority would only make the situation worse.
Despite ongoing insecurity, the government maintains that Nigeria remains committed to protecting freedom of religion and ensuring peace for all its citizens.