By Desire Emmanuel
The Federal Government on Saturday morning rejected President Donald Trump’s statement where he referred to Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” over Christian genocide claims.
“Christianity is facing an existential threat in Nigeria. Thousands of Christians are being killed,” Trump said in a Truth Social post on Friday.
In a statement on Saturday by the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government said the claims do not reflect the realities on the ground.
The statement signed by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson of the ministry, said Nigerians of all faiths have long lived, worked, and worshipped together peacefully.
The ministry said while Nigeria appreciates global concern for human rights and religious freedom, the allegations are misleading and contrary to the government’s sustained efforts to promote peace and unity.
“Nigeria remains committed to fighting terrorism, strengthening interfaith harmony, and protecting the lives and rights of all its people under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” the statement added.
“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.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria will continue to defend all its citizens irrespective of race, creed or religion,” the statement emphasized.
