Bola Tinubu, president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, has opposed the designation of the country as a “Country of Particular Concern” by the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump, calling it a misrepresentation of Nigeria’s democratic values and constitutional protections for religious freedom
In an official statement from Abuja, President Tinubu emphasized that Nigeria’s democracy is grounded in legal guarantees that protect all faiths.
“Nigeria stands firmly as a democracy governed by constitutional guarantees of religious liberty,” he said.
Since assuming office in 2023, Tinubu noted that his government has maintained active engagement with religious leaders across the country.
“Since 2023, our administration has maintained an open and active engagement with Christian and Muslim leaders alike and continues to address security challenges which affect citizens across faiths and regions,” he stated, underlining efforts to ensure that security initiatives benefit all communities equally.
The President disputed claims that Nigeria is intolerant on religious grounds, describing such characterizations as inaccurate and disconnected from the country’s realities.
“The characterisation of Nigeria as religiously intolerant does not reflect our national reality, nor does it take into consideration the consistent and sincere efforts of the government to safeguard freedom of religion and beliefs for all Nigerians,” Tinubu said.
Highlighting Nigeria’s tradition of coexistence, he stressed the country’s commitment to tolerance and respect for diversity.
“Religious freedom and tolerance have been a core tenet of our collective identity and shall always remain so. Nigeria opposes religious persecution and does not encourage it,” he added.
Tinubu also reaffirmed the constitutional protections that apply to citizens regardless of faith and pledged continued collaboration with international partners.
“Nigeria is a country with constitutional guarantees to protect citizens of all faiths. Our administration is committed to working with the United States government and the international community to deepen understanding and cooperation on protection of communities of all faiths,” he said.
The statement comes amid increased global scrutiny of religious freedom in Nigeria. By emphasizing legal safeguards and interfaith engagement, Tinubu framed his administration as committed to protecting all citizens while promoting dialogue and tolerance.
