By: Sunday Ameh
The Nigerian government has appealed to the United States to offer military support in combating terrorism, rather than designating the country as a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged religious persecution.
Presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, made the call on Saturday while responding to the U.S. decision and recent remarks by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who claimed that thousands of Christians are being killed in Nigeria.
In his statement, Onanuga insisted that there is “no ongoing slaughter of thousands of Christians in Nigeria,” describing such claim as exaggerated. According to him, Nigeria is dealing with sporadic attacks carried out by bandits and terrorists without religious bias, noting that both Christians and Muslims have been victims.
“What our country requires from America is military support to fight these violent extremists in some states of our country, not designation as a nation of particular concern,” Onanuga wrote.
The comments come as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs formally rejected the U.S. decision, saying statements about systematic religious persecution are not reflective of Nigeria’s reality.
In a separate release, the ministry emphasized that Nigerians of all faiths have historically lived and worshipped together peacefully, stressing that the government remains committed to interfaith harmony and protecting all citizens.
The statement added that Nigeria would continue engaging the U.S. to build better understanding on security challenges and counter-terrorism efforts.
Trump had earlier announced Nigeria’s redesignation on his Truth Social account, alleging mass killings of Christians by “radical Islamists” and calling the situation an existential threat to Christianity.
Meanwhile, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) recently expressed concern over persistent attacks on Christian communities, especially in northern states, urging the government to act decisively to protect lives and property. U.S. lawmakers have also called for stronger diplomatic actions over alleged persecution.
The Nigerian government, however, maintains that the alleged religious targeting is overstated and reassured citizens of ongoing operations against extremist groups across the country.
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