The federal government has dismissed accusations from certain international organizations and online commentators that terrorists are conducting a coordinated genocide against Christians in the country.
In a statement released on Sunday by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the federal government labeled the allegations as false, misleading, and harmful.
The minister emphasized that Nigeria’s security challenges are complex and cannot be simplified to a religious issue.
He pointed out that terrorists target individuals of all faiths, including Muslims and Christians, with the intent to instill fear and create division.
Idris noted that from May 2023 to February 2025, security forces eliminated over 13,500 terrorists and rescued nearly 10,000 hostages nationwide.
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He also mentioned the capture of key leaders from ANSARU, a group linked to Al-Qaeda, as evidence of ongoing advancements in security efforts.
Additionally, the minister highlighted that Nigeria has successfully prosecuted more than 700 Boko Haram suspects, while the military and the police are actively holding their personnel accountable for any misconduct through court-martials and disciplinary actions.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s identity as a diverse, multi-religious nation, Idris rejected claims that Christianity is under threat in the country.
He pointed out that both the current leaders of the military and the police are Christians, demonstrating inclusivity in national leadership.
He also mentioned Nigeria’s recognized interfaith harmony, citing the recent Commonwealth Peace Prize awarded to Rev. Dr. James Wuye and Imam Muhammad Ashafa for their long-standing efforts in peacebuilding.
The government called on international media and commentators to refrain from sensationalism, respect the facts, and support Nigeria’s counter-terrorism initiatives rather than promoting divisive narratives.
