Nigeria Denies Claims Of Targeted Christian Killings, Calls For Evidence-Based Reporting

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led by Amb. Yusuf M. Tuggar, has dismissed allegations of targeted killings of Christians in Nigeria, labeling them as misleading and aimed at pressuring foreign governments, particularly the United States, to designate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC).

In a statement released on Friday and signed by acting spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the ministry acknowledged Nigeria’s security challenges but maintained that these incidents are not religiously motivated nor aimed at any particular faith group.

The statement emphasized that insurgency and banditry, which primarily affect the northern regions of Nigeria, are indiscriminate and not directed at any specific religious community.

It further rejected past claims in U.S. congressional reports expressing concerns over religious freedom in Nigeria, which previously led to the country’s designation as a CPC.

The Nigerian government has consistently denied these allegations, asserting that the nation’s security issues are complex, driven by criminality, terrorism, and communal clashes—particularly between farmers and herders—rather than religious persecution.

Nigeria, a multiethnic and multireligious country, has a long-standing history of peaceful coexistence among different faith groups, the ministry stated.

The government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting all citizens, irrespective of their religion, ethnicity, or gender.

The statement further explained that conflicts in the country stem from various socio-economic factors, including climate change, population growth, and competition over land resources.

It stressed that these issues do not equate to systematic religious persecution.

Highlighting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s efforts to address security concerns, the ministry pointed to increased deployment of security forces, enhanced intelligence gathering, and inter-agency cooperation.

It also mentioned community engagement programs designed to foster peace and reconciliation.

The statement acknowledged progress in combating insurgency and banditry, noting that recent military operations have significantly weakened criminal groups.

It further highlighted the government’s strategy of combining military action with dialogue and economic reforms to tackle the root causes of insecurity.

To address long-term conflicts related to land use, the government has established a Ministry of Livestock Development and appointed a Special Adviser and Coordinator on Livestock Reforms to implement sustainable solutions for pastoral farming—critical in reducing disputes between farmers and herders.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged the international community to verify claims before making statements that could inflame tensions within Nigeria.

It called on the media, civil society organizations, and foreign partners to refrain from spreading unverified reports that could undermine national unity and stability.

Reaffirming Nigeria’s dedication to religious freedom and interfaith harmony, the statement asserted that the government remains committed to collaborating with religious leaders and stakeholders to promote peace.

“Nigeria remains a beacon of religious tolerance and coexistence in Africa and is committed to preserving this heritage,” the statement read.

While welcoming constructive dialogue and international support in addressing security concerns, the ministry rejected attempts to distort narratives, misrepresent the situation, or create divisions among Nigerians.