The Federal Government has dismissed recent insinuations that Nigeria is experiencing a systematic genocide targeted at Christians.
The government described such claims as misleading and capable of undermining the nation’s hard-earned unity.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made this known in a statement issued on Sunday, September 28, 2025.
Idris described the allegations as “false, baseless, despicable, and divisive,” warning that they misrepresent Nigeria’s security challenges and risk fuelling unnecessary tension.
Idris said: “Portraying Nigeria’s security challenges as a targeted campaign against a single religious group is a gross misrepresentation of reality.
“It oversimplifies a complex, multifaceted security environment and plays into the hands of terrorists who seek to divide Nigerians along religious or ethnic lines.”
The minister explained that terrorist activities in Nigeria affect all citizens regardless of religion or ethnicity.
He stressed that Muslims, Christians, and those of other faiths have been victims of violent attacks, adding that government efforts are focused on protecting every Nigerian without discrimination.
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Highlighting recent progress, Idris disclosed that between May 2023 and February 2025, over 13,500 terrorists and criminals were neutralised and nearly 10,000 hostages rescued in multiple military operations across the country.
Idris noted that security forces recently achieved a major counter-terrorism breakthrough with the arrest of the top leadership of Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina fi-Biladis Sudan (ANSARU), including its self-styled Emir, Mahmud Muhammad Usman (aka Abu Bara’a), and his deputy, Mahmud al-Nigeri.
“These feats underscore the determination of our security forces and demonstrate that Nigeria is neither complacent nor tolerant of terrorism in any form,” the minister added.
Idris further reiterated the federal government’s commitment to the rule of law and accountability, noting that several court-martials and prosecutions have been conducted to address misconduct within the armed forces and police.
Idris emphasised Nigeria’s status as a proudly multi-religious nation with thriving Muslim and Christian populations, saying both the heads of the Armed Forces and Police are Christians — a fact he said underscores the inclusivity of Nigeria’s leadership structure.
The minister urged international media and commentators to avoid sensationalism and divisive rhetoric, instead supporting Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to secure the country.
The Nigerian story is not one of religious genocide or persecution,” Idris said. “Rather, it is a story of resilience, diversity, and a globally acknowledged commitment to peaceful coexistence.”
Idris stated: “The Nigerian story is not one of religious genocide or persecution.
“Rather, it is a story of resilience, diversity, and a globally acknowledged commitment to peaceful coexistence.”
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