In a powerful address that is already igniting national and international debate, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu firmly rejected allegations that Nigeria is experiencing a Christian or Muslim genocide. Speaking on Friday while declaring open the 8th Biennial Conference and Annual General Meeting of the Nasrul-Lahi-l-Fatih Society (NASFAT) in Abuja, the Nigerian leader reiterated that the country’s security challenges stem from criminality, terrorism and violent extremism—not religious persecution.
The speech comes at a time when allegations of genocide have captured global headlines and ignited diplomatic tensions, particularly with the United States. President Tinubu’s remarks were crafted to assure Nigerians and the international community that Nigeria remains committed to unity, constitutional freedoms, and the protection of all faiths.
No Genocide, But Real Security Threats
“At no point is there a Christian genocide in Nigeria, and at no point is there a Muslim genocide in Nigeria,” the President clarified, emphasizing that terrorism in every part of Nigeria affects citizens regardless of their faith. He stressed that both Christians and Muslims are victims of violent extremism and criminal networks, not targets of a state-sanctioned campaign of persecution.
Tinubu described the genocide narrative as harmful, divisive, and capable of undermining the nation’s hard-earned peace. He implored citizens and observers to dismiss such false narratives, asserting that these claims are misunderstood and often exploited by internal and external actors seeking to drive wedges between Nigeria’s diverse communities.
Context: Global and Domestic Pressure
The backdrop to President Tinubu’s comments includes a controversial designation of Nigeria by U.S. authorities as a “Country of Particular Concern (CPC)” regarding religious freedom. This designation was followed by dire warnings from some quarters in the United States about potential intervention—comments that Nigerian officials swiftly rejected as unhelpful and misinformed.
Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs doubled down on these positions, stating that violence linked to groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP does not discriminate across religious lines and affects Muslims, Christians, and traditional religion practitioners alike. The Ministry spokesperson made it clear that while the government acknowledges the severity of insecurity, it does not reflect targeted genocide against any single faith group.
Civil society organisations have also weighed in, noting the absence of reliable, faith-segmented data that could corroborate genocide claims. In a recent communique, the National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) observed that the lack of a credible database on terrorism victims has fueled speculation and misinterpretation of facts, often leading to inflated and divisive narratives.
Why This Matters: Security, Perception, and National Unity
Tinubu’s stance is as much about security policy as it is about national image. By categorically rejecting genocide claims, the President aims to redirect the conversation toward root causes of insecurity—criminal gangs, banditry, kidnappings for ransom, and extremist insurgencies. These are complex challenges that require collaboration with international partners, targeted national strategies, and stronger internal coordination.
Indeed, Nigeria’s security situation remains deadly and fluid. Recent weeks have seen both disturbing and hopeful developments: the successful rescue of more than 100 abducted schoolchildren in Niger State stirred emotions nationwide and underscored the urgent need for improved security responses.
Simultaneously, reports of confrontations between military forces and civilians in the northeast—such as the tragic December 8 incident in Adamawa State where soldiers allegedly opened fire on protesters—have sparked renewed scrutiny of the government’s approach to security and civil rights.
Tinubu’s Strategic Messaging: Unity and Hope
President Tinubu’s speech also underscores the unifying role of faith-based organisations like NASFAT in fostering peaceful coexistence. He commended these groups for promoting moderation, tolerance, and service to humanity, highlighting their importance in reinforcing social cohesion amidst adversity.
In a country where religious identity is deeply woven into social fabric, the President’s appeal for unity is both symbolic and strategic. He reiterated that Nigeria’s diversity is its strength, and that fostering mutual respect among different religious communities is essential for long-term peace and development.
Looking Forward: Diplomacy, Security Reform, and National Dialogue
As Nigeria navigates this sensitive moment, President Tinubu has signaled a willingness to engage with global partners constructively and diplomatically. Officials continue to push back against external criticisms while inviting cooperation on security challenges that affect all Nigerians, irrespective of faith.
On the domestic front, the government has reiterated its commitment to strengthening law enforcement, combating violent extremism, and protecting constitutional freedoms. It remains to be seen how these efforts will translate into measurable change on the ground—but one thing is clear: the narrative of genocide has been formally rejected at the highest level of government.
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