President Bola Tinubu has again dismissed claims that Nigeria is witnessing a Christian genocide, insisting that no religious group is being targeted. He said both Christians and Muslims have suffered from terrorism driven by criminality, extremism and long-standing socioeconomic problems—not religious persecution.
Tinubu delivered the message in Abuja on Friday while declaring open the NASFAT 8th Biennial Conference and Annual General Meeting, themed “Building Resilience in a Changing World: The Role of Faith and Community.” The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, represented the President.
Tinubu Responds to Global Concerns
The President’s comments come weeks after former U.S. President Donald Trump alleged that Christians were being “killed for their faith” in Nigeria. Trump even threatened military intervention if the Nigerian government failed to act. His comments sparked global reactions and placed Nigeria under renewed scrutiny.
Consequently, the Federal Government sent a delegation led by the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, to brief U.S. lawmakers and counter what it described as misleading claims.
“No Religious Genocide in Nigeria” — Tinubu
Tinubu said allegations circulating internationally were not only false but dangerous. According to him, such claims threaten national unity and undermine ongoing peace efforts.
“Our response was clear and firm,” he said. “Nigeria does not persecute any religious group. Muslims and Christians alike have been victims of terrorism, and they stand together in condemning violence.”
He stressed that the Constitution guarantees religious freedom and that the government remains committed to protecting every citizen regardless of faith.
Reject Divisive Narratives
Tinubu urged Nigerians to ignore narratives designed to divide the country. He said external voices sometimes misinterpret Nigeria’s complex security challenges, adding that unity remains the nation’s greatest strength.
“We must reject any attempt to sow discord,” he said. “Our differences are a divine design, not a source of conflict.”
NASFAT Praised for Promoting Peace
The President commended NASFAT for encouraging moderation, tolerance and national harmony. He said such values are essential for conflict resolution and long-term stability.
Meanwhile, keynote speaker Dr. Nurudeen Lemu urged Nigerians, especially Muslims, to hold firmly to their faith and remain optimistic despite national challenges.
