Tinubu Assures U.S. of Religious Protection, Rejects Claims of Persecution

President Bola Tinubu has responded firmly to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat of military intervention over alleged killings and persecution of Christians in Nigeria.

In a statement shared on his X handle on Sunday, Tinubu stressed that his administration remains committed to religious freedom and cooperation with the United States to safeguard all faiths.

“Nigeria stands firmly as a democracy governed by constitutional guarantees of religious liberty,” the president said. “Since 2023, our administration has maintained open and active engagement with Christian and Muslim leaders alike, while addressing security challenges that affect citizens across all faiths and regions.”

Tinubu rejected Trump’s description of Nigeria as religiously intolerant, calling it a mischaracterisation of the nation’s religious landscape. “The portrayal of Nigeria as a country that condones religious persecution does not reflect our national reality, nor the consistent efforts of the government to protect freedom of religion for all Nigerians,” he said.

The president reiterated that religious freedom and tolerance remain central to Nigeria’s identity. He added that his administration is ready to work with the U.S. government and the international community to strengthen collaboration on protecting communities of all faiths.

Trump had, on Saturday via Truth Social, warned that the U.S. could halt aid and potentially undertake military action if Nigeria failed to stop the killing of Christians. This followed the U.S. designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” under the International Religious Freedom Act over alleged violations of religious rights—claims the Tinubu administration has consistently denied.

“Our administration is committed to working with the United States and the international community to deepen understanding and cooperation on the protection of all religious communities,” Tinubu added.