Nigeria Rejects U.S. Religious Freedom Designation, Calls It Based on “Faulty Data”
Nigeria has strongly rejected the United States’ designation of the country as a “country of particular concern” over alleged violations of religious freedom. The Nigerian government claims that the decision is based on misinformation and inaccurate data, and it has criticized the move as an unfair characterization of its efforts to address security challenges.
The U.S. decision to place Nigeria on the list of countries that have violated religious freedoms has caused significant tension between the two nations. President Donald Trump previously included Nigeria in this list and reportedly instructed the U.S. Defence Department to prepare for potential military action if the country does not take stronger measures against the killing of Christians.
In response to these allegations, Information Minister Mohammed Idris defended Nigeria’s record during a press briefing. He stated that the U.S. narrative about the Nigerian government failing to act against religious attacks is based on incorrect information. Idris emphasized that the government is actively working to combat terrorism and ensure the safety of all citizens, regardless of their faith.
General Olufemi Oluyede, the Chief of Defence Staff, clarified that Nigeria faces terrorism rather than persecution of Christians. He noted that the Nigerian presidency is open to receiving U.S. assistance in fighting Islamist insurgents, provided that the country’s territorial integrity is respected.
Idris highlighted the progress made by President Bola Tinubu’s administration since taking office in May 2023. He stated that the government remains committed to working with the U.S. and other friendly nations to eliminate terrorism within Nigeria. According to Idris, over 13,500 militants have been killed, 17,000 suspects arrested, and more than 11,200 hostages—many of whom are women and children—have been rescued.
He also pointed out that terrorism affects both Christians and Muslims in Nigeria. The government is focused on ending extremist violence through a combination of military action, regional cooperation, and dialogue with international partners.
Nigeria is home to more than 200 ethnic groups, each practicing Christianity, Islam, or traditional faiths. While the country has a history of coexistence among different religious communities, it has also experienced sporadic violence driven by ethnic tensions and competition over scarce resources.
Key Points from the Nigerian Government’s Response
- The Nigerian government denies the U.S. allegations of religious freedom violations, calling them based on misinformation.
- Information Minister Mohammed Idris described the U.S. narrative as unwarranted and misleading.
- General Olufemi Oluyede clarified that Nigeria faces terrorism, not religious persecution.
- The government is open to U.S. support in combating Islamist insurgents, but insists on respecting national sovereignty.
- Significant progress has been made in tackling terrorism, including the arrest of thousands of suspects and the rescue of numerous hostages.
- Terrorism affects both Christians and Muslims, and the government is committed to addressing the issue through multiple strategies.