President Bola Tinubu has once again refuted allegations that Nigeria is experiencing a genocide against Christians or Muslims, stressing that no religious group is being deliberately targeted for violence.
According to the President, the country’s security challenges are rooted in criminal activities, extremism, and longstanding socio-economic issues rather than religious persecution.
Tinubu made this known on Friday in Abuja while declaring open the 8th Biennial Conference and Annual General Meeting of the Nasrul-Lahi-l-Fatih Society (NASFAT), themed “Building Resilience in a Changing World: The Role of Faith and Community.” He was represented at the event by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi.
The President explained that Nigeria is confronting terrorism driven largely by criminal networks and extremist elements, not faith-based hatred. He noted that recent claims suggesting religious genocide in the country are misleading and capable of undermining national unity.
His remarks followed comments made weeks earlier by former United States President Donald Trump, who alleged that Christians were being systematically targeted in Nigeria and warned of possible U.S. military intervention if the situation was not addressed. Trump’s statement, which also saw Nigeria labeled a “Country of Particular Concern,” sparked widespread reactions both locally and internationally.
In response, the Nigerian government dispatched a delegation led by the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, to engage U.S. lawmakers and clarify the realities of Nigeria’s security situation.
Speaking at the NASFAT event, Tinubu emphasized that both Muslims and Christians have suffered from terrorist violence and have consistently condemned acts of brutality regardless of the perpetrators.
“As President, I reaffirm with full responsibility that there is no Christian genocide in Nigeria, just as there is no Muslim genocide,” he said. “What we face is terrorism driven by criminality and extremism, challenges the government is actively confronting.”
The President further assured Nigerians that his administration remains committed to safeguarding lives, protecting religious freedom, and strengthening national unity. He urged citizens to reject narratives that promote division or misrepresent Nigeria’s diverse society.
Tinubu also praised NASFAT for its contributions to peace and cohesion, noting that the organization’s teachings on moderation, tolerance, and service play a vital role in fostering harmony across the country.
“Our diversity is a strength, not a weakness,” he said. “It is part of divine design and must never become a source of conflict.”
At the conference, the keynote speaker, Dr. Nurudeen Lemu, encouraged Muslims to remain steadfast in faith and hopeful despite the nation’s challenges, emphasizing the importance of resilience and trust in God.
