The Federal Government has rejected claims of a systematic genocide against Christians by Nigerian terrorists, calling them “false, baseless, despicable, and divisive.” Minister of Information Mohammed Idris said these accusations distort the facts and misrepresent Nigeria’s security challenges.
“The federal government strongly condemns and categorically refutes recent allegations by certain international platforms and online influencers suggesting that terrorists operating in Nigeria are engaged in a systematic genocide against Christians,” the statement reads.
“Portraying Nigeria’s security challenges as a targeted campaign against a single religious group is a gross misrepresentation of reality. While Nigeria faces acts of terrorism, such claims are inaccurate and harmful,” Idris added.
The minister emphasized that extremists target Nigerians of all faiths. “Muslims, Christians, and even those without religion have suffered at their hands,” he said.
Between May 2023 and February 2025, security personnel neutralized 13,543 terrorists and rescued roughly 10,000 hostages. He highlighted arrests of Ansaru leaders and the prosecution of over 700 Boko Haram suspects.
Idris said, “Only last month, security forces captured the top leadership of Ansaru in a well-coordinated counter-terrorism operation. To date, we have secured over 700 convictions.”
Idris stressed that the government does not endanger or marginalize Christians. He noted that current heads of the armed forces and police are Christians, reflecting national inclusivity.
The minister also cited international recognition of Nigeria’s ecumenical efforts. He said, “In March, authorities awarded the Commonwealth Peace Prize to Rev. James Movel Wuye and Imam Muhammad Nurayn Ashafa, co-founders of the Interfaith Mediation Centre.”
He urged foreign media and commentators to support Nigeria’s counterterrorism efforts instead of sensationalizing them. Idris concluded, “We advise all stakeholders to avoid ignorance, sensationalism, and divisive rhetoric, and support Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and criminality.”
