The Nigerian government has formally rejected the decision by former U.S. President Donald Trump to designate Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged persecution of Christians, calling the move based on “inaccurate and reckless claims.”
In an official statement, the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the designation as “ill-timed, lacking factual basis and misrepresenting the situation of religious freedom in Nigeria.” The ministry insisted that the U.S. move ignores Nigeria’s plural society and security challenges that affect all citizens.
Trump’s social media post had claimed thousands of Christians are being killed in Nigeria and declared the country a “Country of Particular Concern.” He further wrote: “When Christians, or any such group, is slaughtered like is happening in Nigeria … something must be done!”
Responding, the Nigerian government urged for a more balanced approach and emphasized that it believes in addressing all targeted victims of violence, not singling out any faith. The foreign affairs release noted that violence in Nigeria affects Christians and Muslims, citing attacks in both Christian and Muslim-majority regions.
