The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to fighting terrorism, violent extremism, and ensuring the protection of all citizens irrespective of their religious backgrounds, following the re-designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) by the then U.S. President Donald Trump over alleged killings of Christians.
In a statement released on Saturday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Kimiebi Ibienfa, the government declared that it has taken note of the U.S. action and remains committed to securing the nation.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump accused Islamist terrorists of perpetrating widespread massacres of Christians in Nigeria, adding that “Christianity is facing an existential threat.” He called for U.S. lawmakers to investigate the matter, adding that “America will not stand by while such atrocities happen.”
Reacting, Nigeria dismissed the narrative of religious persecution, insisting that the violence ravaging parts of the country stems from insurgency and criminality affecting both Christians and Muslims.
“We remain committed to tackling violent extremism driven by special interests across West Africa and the Sahel. The Federal Government of Nigeria will continue to defend all citizens, irrespective of race, creed, or religion,” the statement read.
He also repeated that Nigeria is committed to religious tolerance and to partnership with its allies, like the United States, in promoting peace and stability.
Nigeria was, for the first time, designated a CPC by the Trump administration in December 2020 but was removed from the listing by the Biden administration in 2021—a move that engendered criticism from U.S. lawmakers and human rights advocates. However, a new bill in 2025, the Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act, revived calls for Nigeria’s reinstatement due to ongoing violence and alleged government inaction.
The re-designation, even though Abuja has continued to reject the label, may have a diplomatic implication-for instance, the imposition of sanctions or travel restrictions on those linked to alleged abuses.
