President Bola Tinubu has dismissed the recent redesignation of Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” by the United States, describing the decision as misinformed and inconsistent with the nation’s constitutional and social realities.
The U.S. government had on Friday listed Nigeria among countries accused of failing to prevent or tolerating severe violations of religious freedom.
In a follow-up statement, former U.S. President Donald Trump escalated the controversy by threatening military action and suspension of aid if the alleged “Christian genocide” continued.
Responding through his verified X handle, @officialABAT, Tinubu said the allegations do not reflect the true state of affairs in Nigeria, insisting that the country remains a pluralistic democracy governed by the rule of law and committed to protecting citizens of all faiths.
“Nigeria stands firmly as a democracy governed by constitutional guarantees of religious liberty. Since 2023, our administration has maintained an open and active engagement with Christian and Muslim leaders alike and continues to address security challenges which affect citizens across faiths and regions,” he said.
The President described the U.S. position as a distortion of decades-long national efforts by successive governments, religious bodies, and community leaders to foster peace and coexistence among Nigeria’s diverse faith communities.
“The characterisation of Nigeria as religiously intolerant does not reflect our national reality, nor does it take into consideration the consistent and sincere efforts of the government to safeguard freedom of religion and beliefs for all Nigerians,” Tinubu said.
He reaffirmed that religious tolerance remains a defining principle of Nigeria’s unity and governance, adding that the state neither promotes nor condones persecution in any form.
“Religious freedom and tolerance have been a core tenet of our collective identity and shall always remain so. Nigeria opposes religious persecution and does not encourage it,” he added.
Tinubu also emphasized that his administration will continue to uphold constitutional protections for all citizens and engage international partners, including the U.S., to strengthen global efforts toward religious rights and understanding.
“Our administration is committed to working with the United States government and the international community to deepen understanding and cooperation on protection of communities of all faiths,” he said.
The Nigerian Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs also faulted the U.S. classification, saying Nigeria’s diverse religious communities have long coexisted peacefully.
In a statement signed by its Spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the Ministry reaffirmed the government’s commitment to combating terrorism, promoting interfaith harmony, and safeguarding the rights and lives of all Nigerians.
“The Federal Government of 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.
“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.
“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.
“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,’” the statement read.
