Nigeria Rejects US Religious Freedom Violation Allegations: Minister Defends Nation's Counterterrorism Efforts

Minister Mohammed Idris firmly defended Nigeria's stance on religious freedom following serious allegations from the United States.

Nigeria has strongly rejected its classification by the United States as a "country of particular concern" regarding religious freedom violations, asserting that the designation stems from misinformation and inaccurate data assessment.

Last week, President Donald Trump reinstated Nigeria to a list of nations allegedly violating religious freedoms. Trump subsequently announced on Saturday that he had instructed the Defense Department to prepare for potential "fast" military intervention if Nigeria fails to address the reported killings of Christians.

This designation has created significant diplomatic tension between the two nations, complicating their bilateral relationship.

During an official press briefing, Information Minister Mohammed Idris emphasized that Trump's military threats were unjustified and mischaracterized Nigeria's complex security challenges.

"Any narrative suggesting that the Nigerian State is failing to take action against religious attacks is based on misinformation or faulty data," Idris stated definitively.

General Olufemi Oluyede, Nigeria's Chief of Defence Staff, clarified on Monday that the country faces terrorism issues rather than systematic persecution of Christians. The Nigerian presidency has expressed openness to American assistance in combating Islamist insurgents, provided Nigeria's territorial sovereignty remains respected.

Minister Idris highlighted that President Bola Tinubu's administration has achieved considerable progress in countering terrorism since assuming leadership in May 2023.

"The Government of Nigeria remains open and willing to work closely with the Government of the United States, other friendly nations and partners, to achieve our shared goal, the complete elimination of terrorism on Nigerian soil," he affirmed.

The minister presented significant counterterrorism statistics: over 13,500 militants eliminated, 17,000 suspects detained, and more than 11,200 hostages rescued, including women and children.

Idris emphasized that terrorism affects both Christian and Muslim communities indiscriminately, adding that the government is determined to eradicate extremist violence through military operations, regional collaboration, and constructive dialogue with international partners.

Nigeria, with its diverse population of more than 200 ethnic groups practicing Christianity, Islam, and traditional faiths, has largely maintained religious coexistence despite occasional violence, which is often driven by ethnic tensions and competition for limited resources.