THE Federal Government has called on U.S. President Donald Trump to take a more measured approach to Nigeria’s internal security issues, following his recent remarks accusing the country of genocide against Christians.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made the appeal today in Abuja, emphasizing that Nigeria’s situation is complex and requires nuanced understanding rather than external threats.
“We call on our American friends and partners to approach Nigeria’s situation with an understanding of its complex realities,” Idris said.
“Nigeria is a vast, multi-ethnic, and multi-religious nation making significant progress in economic reforms and strengthening its security architecture. Constructive engagement remains the most effective way to achieve peace and stability — not just in Nigeria but globally.”
Idris reiterated the government’s openness to dialogue and cooperation with international allies, including the United States, to address shared security concerns.
He highlighted recent gains in the fight against terrorism and other violent crimes, noting that Nigeria’s armed forces have recorded major victories in the North-East and North-West regions.
According to him, the military has neutralized more than 592 terrorists in Borno State alone within eight months, freed over 11,200 hostages, and received the surrender of over 124 insurgents who handed in 11,000 weapons.
Citing data from the Global Terrorism Index, Idris noted that terrorist attacks in Nigeria are now at their lowest level in more than a decade.
He also pointed out that President Bola Tinubu’s administration has made substantial investments in modern security equipment and increased budgetary allocations to the military.
“The President has demonstrated strong political will to eliminate terrorism, banditry, and other criminal activities threatening our peace.
Recent operations in Zamfara, Kaduna, and Niger states have seen the elimination of notorious bandit leaders such as Ali Kachalla, Boderi, and Halilu Sububu,” he stated.
Trump, in a post last Friday, described the alleged killings of Christians in Nigeria as a “mass slaughter,” claiming that Christianity faces an existential threat in the country.
He called for an investigation into the matter and directed Congressman Riley Moore and House Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole to look into the allegations.
“The United States cannot stand by while such atrocities are happening,” Trump said. “We stand ready, willing, and able to save our great Christian population around the world.”
The Nigerian government, however, maintains that while security challenges persist, significant progress has been made in restoring peace and stability across affected regions — and that collaboration, not confrontation, is key to sustaining these gains.