The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has strongly refuted recent reports alleging targeted killings of Christians in Nigeria, describing them as misleading and aimed at influencing foreign perceptions, particularly in the United States.
In a statement, the Ministry expressed concern over the spread of misinformation, emphasized that Nigeria’s security challenges ranging from insurgency and banditry to communal clashes are not religiously motivated. It clarified that criminal activities in the predominantly Muslim northern region do not selectively target any religious group.
The government reiterated its commitment to safeguarding all citizens, regardless of faith, ethnicity, or gender. Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, efforts to combat insecurity have intensified, including the deployment of security forces, intelligence-driven operations, and community engagement initiatives.
Additionally, the establishment of the Ministry of Livestock Development and the appointment of a Special Adviser on Livestock Reforms aim to address farmer-herder conflicts, which are often misrepresented as religious violence.
The Ministry urged the international community, media, and civil society organizations to verify information before making conclusions that could fuel tensions. It reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to religious tolerance and national unity while rejecting any attempts to distort the country’s security situation.
