Nigerian Ministers Blast Trump Over ‘Christian Killings’ Claim.

 

Ministers.

Several Nigerian ministers have strongly reacted to comments made by former United States President Donald Trump, who alleged that Christians were being killed in large numbers in Nigeria. Trump’s statement, which accused the Nigerian government of failing to protect Christians, has drawn widespread criticism from members of President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, dismissed Trump’s claim as baseless and misleading. He stated that Nigeria is a secular nation where citizens of all faiths coexist peacefully, and that the government has made significant efforts to ensure religious harmony. Idris emphasised that the Tinubu administration remains committed to protecting the rights and safety of all Nigerians, regardless of their religious affiliations.

He further explained that the violence occurring in certain parts of the country is not driven by religion but by factors such as banditry, communal disputes, and economic hardship. According to Idris, portraying these issues as religious persecution is both irresponsible and dangerous, as it could inflame tensions and misrepresent Nigeria’s complex security challenges.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, also criticised Trump’s comments, describing them as “an unnecessary provocation based on outdated narratives.” Tuggar reiterated that the Nigerian government maintains strong diplomatic relations with the United States and expects mutual respect in all engagements. He said that foreign leaders should seek accurate information before making public statements that could mislead the international community.

Similarly, Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, expressed disappointment over Trump’s remarks, saying they undermine Nigeria’s progress in fostering peace among diverse ethnic and religious groups. He pointed out that the country’s security agencies have been working tirelessly to maintain order and ensure that all citizens, including Christians and Muslims, are protected from criminal attacks.

Minister of Defence, Badaru Abubakar, also spoke on the matter, assuring that the government’s counterterrorism operations target all violent groups without bias or discrimination. He stated that no section of the population is singled out for persecution and that national security efforts are focused on protecting everyone within Nigeria’s borders.

Meanwhile, several civil society organisations and religious leaders have called for caution in interpreting Trump’s statement. They urged Nigerians not to allow foreign comments to sow division or distrust among citizens. Some clerics reminded the public that interfaith dialogue and cooperation remain vital for sustaining national unity and peace.

In response, the Presidency reaffirmed its commitment to upholding religious freedom as guaranteed by the Nigerian Constitution. Presidential spokesperson Ajuri Ngelale described Trump’s statement as “unfortunate and disconnected from reality,” stressing that the administration is focused on improving security, promoting unity, and addressing the root causes of violence.

The government maintained that Nigeria’s challenges are complex but not defined by religion. Officials urged the international community to support constructive partnerships that promote peace, development, and mutual understanding rather than narratives that could heighten division.