Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to religious freedom, unity, and diversity, following recent comments from former U.S. President Donald Trump that have drawn international attention.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria restated its determination to confront violent extremism and protect citizens of all faiths.
President Trump, writing on his Truth Social account on Friday, had declared that “Christianity is facing an existential threat in Nigeria”, alleging that “radical Islamists” were responsible for “mass slaughter” and announcing that he was “making Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern.”
He claimed that thousands of Christians were being killed across the country.
Responding to these assertions, the Ministry stated:
“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.”
It went on to emphasize the government’s continued efforts to defend every citizen regardless of background or belief.
“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.”
The statement further highlighted Nigeria’s diversity and enduring values:
“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.”
Reaffirming Nigeria’s strong ties with the United States, the Ministry expressed confidence that cooperation between both nations will remain steadfast.
“The US has been – and we trust will always remain – a close ally, because the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and 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.
The statement, signed by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, concluded that Nigeria’s fight against extremism will continue to be guided by the principles of peace, inclusion, and respect for all faiths.