Nigeria not intolerant — Tinubu counters Trump’s ‘Country of Particular Concern’ label

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has dismissed the classification of Nigeria as a country intolerant of religious freedom, responding to former United States President Donald Trump’s designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged religious persecution.

In a statement released from the State House, Abuja and obtained by Very Nigerian, President Tinubu stressed that Nigeria remains a democratic nation where religious liberty is protected under the constitution. He noted that since 2023, his administration has maintained active engagement with both Christian and Muslim leaders to promote peace and understanding.

“The characterisation of Nigeria as religiously intolerant does not reflect our national reality,” Tinubu said. “It fails to take into consideration the consistent and sincere efforts of the government to safeguard freedom of religion and belief for all Nigerians.”

He reaffirmed that tolerance and religious freedom are integral to Nigeria’s national identity and values, adding that his administration continues to address security challenges that affect citizens regardless of faith or region.

“Nigeria opposes religious persecution and does not encourage it,” the statement read. “Our constitution guarantees protection for citizens of all faiths, and our government remains steadfast in upholding those principles.”

The President also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to work with the United States and the broader international community to enhance mutual understanding and cooperation in protecting religious communities.

“Nigeria’s democracy stands on the foundation of equality, freedom, and justice,” Tinubu added. “We will continue to promote unity and peaceful coexistence among our diverse religious communities.”

His comments come amid ongoing debates over international reports assessing the state of religious freedom in Africa’s most populous country.

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