148
By Oscar Okhifo
Nigeria has dismissed the United States’ decision to redesignate the country as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) over alleged persecution of Christians, describing the claim of a “Christian genocide” as false and misleading.
The move by US President Donald Trump alleges that religious freedom violations in Nigeria have intensified, placing Christian communities under severe threat.
But the Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejected the assertion, insisting that the country’s insecurity stems from terrorism, banditry, and farmer-herder conflicts, not religious persecution.
“There is no government policy or action targeted at any religion. To suggest genocide against Christians is incorrect and ignores the complexity of our security challenges,” the ministry said.
Despite the government’s position, questions linger over the possible implications of the US designation.
Analysts say nobody can predict what the consequences might be if President Trump insists on punitive actions.
However, many Nigerians who believe the government has failed to adequately confront widespread killings or hold perpetrators accountable are likely to welcome sanctions, especially those targeting individuals and groups seen as enabling impunity in Africa’s most populous nation.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) is not quiet. It agreed that Christians continue to face violent attacks in several regions, particularly in the North, but cautioned against describing the situation as a government-backed genocide.
According to a senior CAN official,
“Our people are indeed targets in some of these attacks. Clergy have been kidnapped, churches destroyed, and worshippers killed. But we must be careful with labels. The crisis affects Muslims too, and we need global support, not sensationalism.”
CAN urged both Nigerian authorities and the US government to strengthen cooperation in protecting vulnerable communities, while also improving intelligence and accountability across security agencies.
Government officials say the CPC designation risks damaging Nigeria’s reputation internationally and could jeopardize security assistance.
Nigeria was removed from the list in 2023 but has now been reinstated after lobbying by religious-freedom advocates.
The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the rights and freedoms of all citizens, regardless of belief.