NIGERIA has once again strongly rejected its re-designation by the United States as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) for alleged religious persecution, insisting the claim is based on misinformation and an inaccurate interpretation of its security challenges.
News Point Nigeria reports that Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dunoma Ahmed, conveyed Nigeria’s position on Wednesday while addressing members of the diplomatic corps in Abuja.
Ahmed, who represented the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, maintained that Nigeria remains a secular state under the Constitution, and protects the rights of all citizens regardless of their religious beliefs.
“Recent external claims suggesting systemic religious persecution in Nigeria are unfounded,” Ahmed said.
“Our constitutional order guarantees freedom of religion, conscience, and association, with equal protection of all citizens under the law.”
Nigeria’s engagement with diplomats came days after U.S. President Donald Trump reinstated Nigeria on the CPC list, a category reserved for countries accused of severe violations of religious freedom.
Trump alleged that Christians in Nigeria were facing widespread persecution by “radical Islamists,” even threatening possible military action.
Nigeria, however, argues that the U.S. position wrongly paints a picture of state-backed religious oppression.
Ahmed stressed that Nigeria’s security realities are driven more by economic, territorial and criminal motivations than religion.
“The CPC designation misrepresents Nigeria’s secular constitutional order,” he said.
“Victims of violence in Nigeria cut across both Christian and Muslim communities.”
He clarified that Nigerian law contains no offence of blasphemy, and security agencies continue to protect mosques and churches alike.
Taking advantage of the diplomatic forum, the Foreign Affairs Ministry briefed envoys on key achievements of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, describing current reforms as “bold and transformative.”
Among the progress highlighted:
FX unification and fuel subsidy removal reduce distortions and improve transparency
Savings reinvested in Infrastructure Support Fund and Conditional Cash Transfers
National production now above 1.6 million barrels per day
Dangote Refinery’s phased operations + refinery rehabilitation to curb fuel imports
Full implementation of PIA and renewed focus on gas development
Agricultural programmes boosting food security and agro-exports
Mining reforms enhancing transparency and community benefit
Digital economy initiatives expanding broadband and fintech growth
Student Loan Act and NELFUND expand access to higher education
TVET reforms prepare youths for ICT and renewable-energy jobs
Major road, rail and housing investments under Renewed Hope Infrastructure Plan
Siemens Power Initiative improving grid reliability
Ahmed noted that military operations such as Operation Hadin Kai (North-East) and Operation Lake Sanity (Lake Chad Basin) have regained territories and aided resettlement of displaced persons.
He reaffirmed that Nigeria is neither a failed state nor one persecuting any religious group:
“Nigeria is a resilient and vibrant democracy confronting complex security challenges not a nation of religious persecution,” he stated.
“We seek global partnerships grounded in truth, justice and mutual respect.”
He expressed optimism that ongoing reforms will restore stability and accelerate economic transformation.