Nigeria has rejected former U.S. President Donald Trump’s claims that Christians are facing genocide in the country, calling the statement “false and baseless.” The government said Trump’s remarks misrepresent the nation’s security challenges and risk fueling religious tension.
The Nigerian Ministry of Information emphasized that the country’s conflicts are not religiously driven but largely linked to criminal and ethnic factors. Officials said linking the issue to religion oversimplifies a complex situation and undermines Nigeria’s efforts to maintain peace among diverse communities.
Nigeria’s response came after Trump, during a recent public appearance, alleged that Christians were being killed in large numbers in Nigeria. His comments quickly sparked global reactions, with many questioning the accuracy of his claims. The government, however, maintained that such statements could mislead the international community and harm Nigeria’s image.
Authorities reiterated that Nigeria remains committed to religious freedom and coexistence. They noted that both Christians and Muslims have been victims of violence, especially in areas affected by banditry and insurgency. The statement also urged global leaders to verify facts before making public remarks about sensitive issues.
Amid ongoing debates about religious persecution and global peace, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) recently adopted a final communiqué condemning Israeli aggression against Palestinians. The move reflected wider international concerns about violence and discrimination across regions.
Nigeria’s officials said such international unity against injustice should inspire collective efforts to address the root causes of conflicts within countries, rather than spreading unfounded claims. They added that the government remains focused on strengthening national security, promoting dialogue, and ensuring that all Nigerians, regardless of faith, feel protected.
