The Federal Government has issued a strong denial of recent allegations by international platforms and online influencers that terrorist groups in Nigeria are conducting a systematic genocide against Christians. In a statement released today, the government described such claims as “false, baseless, despicable and divisive.”
According to the statement signed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris, portraying Nigeria’s security challenges as a targeted assault on Christians is a gross misrepresentation of reality. While acknowledging the severity of terrorism, banditry and communal violence, the government emphasised that these threats affect all citizens Muslims, Christians, and those of no faith and are not driven by religious identity.
The statement highlights significant operational successes between May 2023 and February 2025, during which more than 13,500 terrorists and criminals were neutralised, and nearly 10,000 hostages rescued in combined military operations. A recent counter‐terrorism operation also captured the leadership of Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina fi‐Biladis Sudan (ANSARU), including its self‐styled Emir, Mahmud Muhammad Usman (aka Abu Bara’a), and his deputy.
Further, the government noted that law enforcement agencies have taken steps to ensure accountability, including court martials and prosecutions for misconduct. It underscored Nigeria’s multi‑religious nature, asserting that Christianity is neither endangered nor marginalised. As evidence, it pointed out that the current heads of the Armed Forces and the Police Force are Christians, reflecting the inclusivity of leadership.
Under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, efforts to prosecute Boko Haram suspects have led to over 700 convictions in seven batches, with more prosecutions underway. The government also drew attention to interfaith cooperation initiatives such as those led by the Interfaith Mediation Centre, Rev. Dr. James Wuye and Imam Dr. Muhammad Nurayn Ashafa recently recognised with the inaugural Commonwealth Peace Prize for promoting religious tolerance.
The Federal Government called on international media, commentators and civil society to avoid sensationalism and divisive rhetoric, urging reliance on verified facts. It reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rights of all Nigerians, regardless of ethnicity or faith, and to continue working with global partners in the fight against terrorism.