By Gloria Ikibah
The Nigerian government has strongly refuted claims suggesting that Christians are being deliberately targeted in the country, describing such reports as misleading and aimed at influencing foreign governments, particularly the United States, to designate Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC).
In a statement issued by the Acting Spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, emphasised that while Nigeria faces significant security challenges, these issues are not motivated by religious bias.
He clarified that incidents of insurgency and banditry, particularly in northern Nigeria, are not directed at any specific religious group.
The statement reaffirmed Nigeria’s status as a multi-ethnic and multi-religious nation, with the government committed to protecting all citizens, regardless of faith, ethnicity, or gender. The ministry stressed that the country’s security issues stem from criminal activities, terrorism, and communal clashes—including farmer-herder disputes—rather than religious persecution.
The statement reads: “The government of Nigeria, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has taken significant steps to address these security concerns, including the deployment of security forces, intelligence gathering and community engagement initiatives. Indeed, the military has recorded substantial gains in curtailing the activities of bandits and insurgents. To bring an end to such security challenges, both the Federal and State authorities have embarked on kinetic and non-kinetic methods and expedited the implementation of the national livestock plan.
“To this end, a Ministry of Livestock Development has been established while a Special Adviser and Coordinator of Livestock Reforms, has been appointed to find sustainable solutions to pastoral farming, with a view to end contestations over land, between farmers and pastoral herders.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, therefore, urges the international community to exercise caution and verify information before drawing conclusions or making statements that could exacerbate tensions within Nigeria. We call on all stakeholders, including the media, civil society organizations and foreign partners, to refrain from spreading unverified claims that could undermine national unity and stability.
“Nigeria remains a beacon of religious tolerance and coexistence in Africa and is committed to preserving this heritage. We welcome constructive dialogue and support from the international community in addressing our security challenges. However, we strongly reject any attempts to wrongly designate the country, distort the narrative, or sow seeds of discord among our people”.