The Federal Government of Nigeria has reacted to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent announcement placing Nigeria on the list of “Countries of Particular Concern” over alleged religious persecution and insecurity.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the government reaffirmed its commitment to tackling violent extremism and protecting all citizens, irrespective of religion, ethnicity, or creed.
The statement noted that Nigeria’s challenges with insecurity are not driven by any particular faith group, but rather by “special interests” seeking to sow division across the West African and Sahel regions.
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We remain committed in 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.
The government expressed sympathy for victims of terrorism and commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their ongoing sacrifices in defending the nation.
We mourn all the victims of violent extremism and salute our armed forces as they continue to fight against vicious but cowardly foes. The Federal Government of Nigeria will continue to defend all citizens, irrespective of race, creed, or religion,” it stated.
While emphasizing Nigeria’s respect for religious freedom and diversity, the government reaffirmed its shared democratic values with the United States.
Like America, Nigeria has no option but to celebrate the diversity that is our greatest strength. Nigeria is a God-fearing country where we respect faith, tolerance, diversity and inclusion, in concurrence with the rules-based international order,” it added.
The statement further described the U.S. as a “close ally,” expressing optimism that bilateral relations would remain strong under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
The U.S. has been and we trust will always remain a close ally. 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,” it said.
Trump had on Friday announced that Nigeria would be redesignated as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) following reports of continued attacks on Christians, saying the country faces an “existential threat” from radical groups.
The Federal Government, however, maintains that religious extremism in Nigeria is being exaggerated by vested interests and insists that the Tinubu administration remains committed to national unity, peace, and inclusive governance.
