United States President Donald Trump has once again claimed that Christians in Nigeria are facing widespread persecution and killings, describing the situation as an “existential threat” to Christianity in the country.
In a video shared by the White House on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, Trump alleged that “thousands and thousands” of Christians have been killed, blaming what he called “radical Islamists” for the attacks.
“Christianity is facing an existential threat in Nigeria. Thousands and thousands of Christians are being killed. Radical Islamists are responsible for this mass slaughter,” he said.
Trump announced that he was officially designating Nigeria as a “country of particular concern”, explaining that it was a legal classification under US law.
“I am hereby making Nigeria a country of particular concern. That’s a legal definition. When Christians or any such group is slaughtered like is happening in Nigeria, something must be done,” he said.
He called on the US Congress to take immediate action, describing the reported figures as “horrific.”
“What horrible numbers. Something has to be done. I am asking Congressman Riley Moore and Chairman Tom Cole, along with the House Appropriations Committee, to look into this immediately,” Trump said.
The former president added that the United States would not stand by while such incidents continue.
“The US cannot stand by while these atrocities are happening in Nigeria and other countries. We are ready and willing to protect Christians around the world. This will not be allowed to continue.”
He had earlier hinted that the US could take stronger measures if what he described as “Christian genocide” in Nigeria was not stopped.
The “country of particular concern” designation, under US law, is used when a nation is deemed to be involved in serious violations of religious freedom or human rights. It often signals potential diplomatic or economic consequences.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian government has maintained that the country upholds religious freedom and tolerance.
In a statement released by President Bola Tinubu on November 1, the government reiterated that Nigeria remains a democracy committed to protecting the rights of all citizens, regardless of faith.
“Nigeria stands firmly as a democracy governed by constitutional guarantees of religious liberty,” Tinubu said.
“Since 2023, this administration has continued to engage both Christian and Muslim leaders in addressing security challenges across faiths and regregions.
Read Also;
Nigeria will emerge stronger amid Trump’ threats – FG
He added that portraying Nigeria as religiously intolerant does not reflect the nation’s reality.
“Religious freedom and tolerance have always been part of our collective identity and will continue to remain so,” Tinubu stated.
