NSCIA has rejected Trump’s “Country of Particular Concern” label and denounced Christian genocide claims in Nigeria.
NaijaOnPoint Nigeria reports that the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has firmly rejected former U.S. President Donald Trump’s designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern,” describing claims of a “Christian genocide” in the country as dangerous foreign propaganda aimed at destabilising the nation.
Speaking in Abuja on Sunday, the Council’s National Secretary, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, said the narrative being promoted by the U.S. government and far-right lobbyists is false, politically motivated, and intended to incite religious divisions in Africa’s most populous country.
“There is no evidence to suggest that Nigerian Muslims are persecuting Christians,” Oloyede stated. He explained that the insecurity affecting Nigeria stems from terrorism, criminality, poverty, and climate change–related displacement, which have fueled violent clashes over resources.
“There is no Christian genocide in Nigeria. Both Muslims and Christians are victims of terrorists and criminal gangs,” he added. “These attackers do not represent Islam. They kill Muslims, destroy mosques, and target everyone.”
Oloyede cited independent investigations, including reports by Amnesty International and other global conflict monitors, which concluded that the violence in Nigeria does not meet the legal definition of genocide under international law.
He further suggested that the renewed push to brand Nigeria a zone of religious persecution coincided with the country’s reaffirmed support for a two-state solution in Palestine at the United Nations. According to him, pro-Israeli and far-right groups are using the narrative to distract from the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
“The agenda is distraction and destabilisation. The fastest way to break Nigeria is to inflame religious tensions,” Oloyede warned.
The Council called on Nigerians of all faiths to reject foreign interference and resist attempts to turn genuine security challenges into sectarian conflict. He also urged the United States to retract its statement and instead support Nigeria with intelligence and logistical aid to combat terrorism.
“We will not allow foreign interests to fragment Nigeria. We stand for unity, peace, and justice,” he said.
NSCIA also appealed to the Nigerian government to strengthen national security, expose the sponsors of banditry, and protect all citizens, irrespective of faith.
Recall that Trump had previously threatened military action against Nigeria over alleged killings of Christians, following his designation of the country as a “Country of Particular Concern.” The Nigerian government has repeatedly rejected these claims, urging international partners to assist in addressing the nation’s insecurity challenges.