The Federal Government has firmly rejected claims suggesting that terrorists in Nigeria are conducting a targeted genocide against Christians, labeling such assertions as unfounded, misleading, and divisive.
In an official communication, the Minister of Communications, Idris Mohammed, emphasized that framing Nigeria’s security issues as a deliberate assault on a single religious group distorts the truth. He explained that while Nigeria faces various security threats, including terrorism, these challenges are not aimed exclusively at Christians but affect all citizens indiscriminately. Simplifying the situation as a religious conflict only serves to deepen divisions and benefits those who wish to destabilize the nation along ethnic and religious lines.
“Terrorist violence in Nigeria does not discriminate based on religion or ethnicity. These extremists target anyone who opposes their violent ideology, whether Muslim, Christian, or non-religious. The Federal Government remains resolute in its mission to dismantle terrorist networks and protect all Nigerians, regardless of their background. Our efforts have yielded tangible results: from May 2023 to February 2025, security forces have neutralized over 13,500 terrorists and criminals, and rescued nearly 10,000 hostages through coordinated military operations nationwide.
Just last month, a major counter-terrorism operation led to the capture of the top leadership of Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina fi-Biladis Sudan (ANSARU), Nigeria’s Al-Qaeda affiliate. Among those apprehended were Mahmud Muhammad Usman (also known as Abu Bara’a/Abbas/Mukhtar), the self-declared Emir of ANSARU, and Mahmud al-Nigeri (Mallam Mamuda), his Chief of Staff and Deputy.”
Idris reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding every Nigerian citizen, irrespective of ethnic or religious affiliation, while collaborating with international allies to combat terrorism on a global scale.
“Nigeria is a nation rich in religious diversity, home to substantial Muslim and Christian populations alike. We host one of the world’s largest Muslim communities alongside some of the most prominent Pentecostal churches and the largest Anglican congregation worldwide. Christianity is neither threatened nor sidelined in Nigeria. It is worth noting that the current leaders of both the Armed Forces and the Police Force are Christians, highlighting the inclusive nature of our national leadership.
In our counter-terrorism efforts, Nigeria has made considerable progress prosecuting Boko Haram suspects, having secured over 700 convictions across seven prosecution cycles. We are now entering the eighth cycle, underscoring our determination to bring terrorists and their supporters to justice.”
He concluded by affirming that Nigeria’s narrative is not one of religious persecution or genocide but one of unity, resilience, and a steadfast dedication to peaceful coexistence recognized worldwide.
The Federal Government called on international media and commentators to exercise responsibility and accuracy in their reporting. It urged all parties to avoid spreading misinformation, sensationalism, or divisive rhetoric, and instead to support Nigeria’s ongoing battle against terrorism and criminal activities.
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