Tinubu Presidency Urges US to Support Nigeria Militarily, Rejects Terror Label

The Bola Tinubu administration has urged the United States to assist Nigeria with military support in combating terrorism rather than labeling the country a “Country of Particular Concern.”

Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga made the appeal on Saturday while responding to the U.S. decision and recent comments by President Donald Trump, who claimed that Christians in Nigeria were facing widespread killings.

Onanuga dismissed the claim as an exaggeration, stating that attacks in Nigeria are carried out by terrorists and bandits who target both Christians and Muslims indiscriminately.

“There is no ongoing slaughter of thousands of Christians in Nigeria,” he said. “What we need from America is military support to fight violent extremists, not designation.”

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also rejected Trump’s comments and the U.S. designation, calling the allegations inaccurate.

In a statement by spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa, the ministry said Nigerians of all faiths have long lived and worshipped together peacefully, adding that the government remains committed to protecting lives, promoting religious tolerance, and defeating terrorism.

The statement reaffirmed that Nigeria will continue to engage with the U.S. to strengthen cooperation on peace and security.

Trump had earlier announced Nigeria’s redesignation as a “Country of Particular Concern” on his Truth Social platform, citing what he called the “mass slaughter” of Christians. He also directed U.S. lawmakers to investigate the situation.

Meanwhile, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) expressed concern over continued attacks on Christian communities in the North, urging the government to act decisively to stop the violence.

The Nigerian government, however, insists that it remains committed to religious freedom and will continue its fight against terrorism without bias.