By Nchetachi Chukwuajah
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has blamed the rising cases of violence in many parts of Nigeria on the recent pronouncements by the United States President, Donald Trump.
Akume, in a press release issued on Wednesday, November 19, addressing the evolution of violent extremism, banditry and ongoing security challenges in the country, said Trump’s statements had inadvertently emboldened violent groups seeking to exploit international narratives to justify attacks on soft targets.
On October 31, Trump designated Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” over allegations of a ‘Christian genocide.’
Trump warned that he might deploy American forces to Nigeria if the alleged killings of Christians did not stop, adding that he had directed the Department of War to prepare for “possible action” should the violence persist.
In the statement however, Akume stressed that insurgency networks had previously been significantly weakened and reduced to isolated banditry before the statements.
He said some groups were now attempting to leverage Trump’s remarks to gain visibility by attacking soft targets.
The statement read: “Recent pronouncements from the United States have inadvertently emboldened opportunistic violent groups seeking to exploit international narratives and make bold statements by attacking soft targets.
“Before these statements, insurgency structures had been significantly degraded and reduced to isolated banditry. This resurgence underscores the vital need for collaboration—not public labeling—between Nigeria and the United States.”
The SGF further reaffirmed the government’s position that Nigeria does not require foreign troops, noting that the Nigerian Armed Forces have reclaimed territories and degraded Boko Haram and Islamic States West Africa Province (ISWAP) structures.
According to him, what the country needs is targeted support from partners, especially in intelligence, technology, and equipment.
“The Nigerian Armed Forces are highly capable, experienced, and professional. They have reclaimed vast territories, degraded Boko Haram/ISWAP leadership structures, and conducted successful multi-theatre operations.
“Nigeria does not require foreign troops. What is needed is targeted support from partners, especially the United States, in the areas of intelligence cooperation, technology, and military equipment support for advanced engagement against the insurgents,” he said.
Akume also said the government rejects claims describing the conflict as a “Christian genocide,” stating that verified evidence shows insurgents and criminal groups have attacked both churches and mosques, killing Muslims and Christians.
He stressed that Nigeria remains a secular state and that government appointments reflect the country’s diversity.
