ABUJA – The Federal Government has firmly rejected calls for foreign military intervention while countering former US President Donald Trump’s characterization of Christian genocide in Nigeria, describing the narrative as “dangerous and inaccurate.”
Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, stated on Wednesday that Nigeria’s armed forces possess the capability and professionalism to address the nation’s security challenges without foreign troop deployment.
“The Nigerian Armed Forces are highly capable, experienced and professional. Nigeria does not require foreign troops,” Akume declared in an official statement that pushed back against the genocide allegations.
The government instead called for strengthened international partnerships focused on intelligence sharing, capacity building, and targeted support to combat terrorism and banditry affecting various regions.
Akume emphasized that while Nigeria faces security challenges, these do not constitute a religious genocide, noting that victims of violence come from all faiths and communities across the country.
The statement reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to protecting all citizens regardless of religion and urged international partners to support evidence-based approaches rather than what it termed “inflammatory narratives.”
This response comes amid increasing international attention on Nigeria’s security situation, with the US Congress preparing to review allegations of religious persecution in the country.
—
