The Federal Government of Nigeria has responded to U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to redesignate Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) over religious freedom.
As reported by First Daily on Friday, October 31, 2025, President Trump, in a post on his Truth Social account, described Christianity in Nigeria as facing an “existential threat,” alleging that radical Islamist groups were responsible for widespread attacks.
He claimed that 3,100 of the 4,476 Christians reportedly killed worldwide in recent times were from Nigeria, characterizing the situation as intolerable and justifying the U.S. designation.
In a statement released on Saturday, November 1, 2025, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to combating violent extremism, describing it as a transnational threat often exacerbated by external actors seeking to exploit divisions across West Africa and the Sahel.
The Ministry emphasized the need to address underlying causes of conflict while strengthening regional cooperation and security.
The statement paid tribute to victims of violent extremism and commended the professionalism of Nigeria’s armed forces in tackling extremist groups.
It also stressed the government’s dedication to safeguarding all citizens, regardless of religion, ethnicity, or social background.
“Nigeria celebrates faith, tolerance, and diversity, which are central to our national identity and fully aligned with the principles of the rules-based international order,” the Ministry said, highlighting these values as guiding principles in both domestic governance and international engagement.
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The release further underscored Nigeria’s longstanding partnership with the United States, describing it as a close and strategic ally.
It reaffirmed the government’s commitment under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to collaborate with partners who support genuine peace, stability, democracy, and human rights.
The statement concluded by emphasizing Nigeria’s dedication to promoting inclusive development, peaceful coexistence, and resilience, positioning the country as a principled and responsible actor on the global stage.
The press release was signed by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja.
