The statement came a day after the American president declared Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern” over what he called the “mass slaughter” of Christians.
“Christianity is facing an existential threat in Nigeria. Thousands of Christians are being killed. Radical Islamists are responsible for this mass slaughter,” Trump wrote.
He also said the United States “cannot stand by while such atrocities are happening,” directing Congressman Riley Moore and House Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole to investigate the matter.
Responding on Saturday, President Bola Tinubu dismissed Trump’s claims, insisting Nigeria remains committed to religious freedom and tolerance.
“The characterisation of Nigeria as religiously intolerant does not reflect our national reality, nor does it recognise government efforts to safeguard freedom of religion and belief,” Tinubu said in a statement he personally signed.
“Nigeria stands firmly as a democracy governed by constitutional guarantees of religious liberty,” he added.
Tinubu explained that since 2023, his administration has maintained open engagement with both Christian and Muslim leaders while addressing security challenges across the country.
“Religious freedom and tolerance have been a core tenet of our collective identity and shall always remain so,” he said.
“Nigeria is a country with constitutional guarantees to protect citizens of all faiths. Our administration is committed to working with the United States government and the international community to deepen cooperation on protecting communities of all faiths.”
