Tinubu Govt Asks U.S. for Military Help, Rejects Terror Tag

The Nigerian government has appealed to the United States to provide military support in the fight against terrorism instead of listing Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern.”

The request came from the Bola Tinubu administration following remarks made by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who alleged that Christians in Nigeria were facing mass killings.

Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga dismissed Trump’s claim, saying that the attacks across Nigeria are mostly carried out by terrorists and bandits who target both Muslims and Christians. He noted that Nigeria does not face a religious war but a security challenge that requires international collaboration to overcome.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also rejected both the U.S. designation and Trump’s statement, describing them as inaccurate. According to ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa, Nigerians of different faiths have long coexisted peacefully, and the government remains committed to protecting citizens, promoting religious harmony, and eliminating terrorism.

The government further assured that it will continue engaging with Washington to strengthen cooperation on peace, counter-terrorism, and security.

Trump, in a post on his Truth Social account, had announced that Nigeria was once again designated as a “Country of Particular Concern,” citing alleged persecution of Christians. He also urged U.S. lawmakers to investigate the situation.

Meanwhile, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) expressed worry over persistent attacks in northern communities, calling on the federal government to intensify efforts to safeguard lives and property.

Despite this, the Tinubu administration insists that it remains fully committed to ensuring freedom of religion and defeating terrorism without discrimination.