The Federal Government of Nigeria has firmly rejected recent allegations circulating in international media and online platforms suggesting that Christians in Nigeria are endangered or systematically marginalised. In a statement issued by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the government described such claims as “false, baseless, and dangerously divisive,” warning that they distort reality and undermine national unity.
"Portraying Nigeria’s security challenges as a targeted campaign against a single religious group is misleading and harmful," Idris stated. "Terrorists attack all who reject their murderous ideology—Muslims, Christians, and even those who do not identify with any religion."
Idris also pointed to Nigeria’s inclusive leadership structure, noting that both the Chief of Defence Staff and the Inspector General of Police are Christians. He emphasized that Nigeria remains a multi-religious state with thriving Christian and Muslim communities.
The Minister cited the recent Commonwealth Peace Prize awarded to Nigerian religious leaders Rev. Dr. James Movel Wuye and Imam Dr. Muhammad Nurayn Ashafa for their decades of interfaith peacebuilding as global recognition of Nigeria’s commitment to religious harmony.
"Christianity is neither endangered nor marginalised in Nigeria," Idris concluded. "We call on international observers to avoid sensationalism and support Nigeria’s efforts against terrorism and criminality."