The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs refutes claims of targeted killings of Christians, emphasizing that violence is not based on religious bias. The government calls for careful verification of information from the international community and emphasizes its commitment to protecting all citizens regardless of faith. Significant measures are being undertaken to address security challenges and promote unity in the country.
The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed significant concern regarding misinformation claiming there are targeted killings of Christians in Nigeria. This misinformation seems intended to sway foreign governments, particularly the United States, into labeling Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern due to alleged violence against Christians.
While acknowledging existing security challenges, the Nigerian government emphasizes that incidents of violence are not based on religious discrimination. It highlights that the majority of incidents in the predominantly Muslim northern region do not specifically target religious groups. Characterizing these events as religious persecution is, therefore, erroneous and misleading.
Nigeria’s diversity as a multi-ethnic and multi-religious nation is reflected in its commitment to protecting all citizens’ lives and properties, irrespective of their faith. The challenges faced include criminality, terrorism, and communal conflicts, such as farmer-herder disputes, which are not driven by religious ideologies.
Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, significant efforts have been made to address security issues, including deploying security forces, improving intelligence mechanisms, and engaging communities. Notable progress has been achieved in limiting the actions of bandits and insurgents, utilizing both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches along with the implementation of the National Livestock Plan.
To tackle land disputes and further mitigate security threats, the government created a Ministry of Livestock Development and appointed a Special Adviser for Livestock Reforms. This initiative aims to foster sustainable pastoral farming solutions, addressing the underlying causes of communal conflicts.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs calls on the global community to verify information carefully before making statements that might escalate tensions in Nigeria. It appeals to various stakeholders, including media and civil society organizations, to avoid sharing unverified claims that could destabilize national unity.
Nigeria prides itself on being a symbol of religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence in Africa. It seeks international support and dialogue to navigate its security challenges while firmly rejecting any misrepresentation of the situation that could incite discord within the nation.
The Nigerian government strongly refutes claims of targeted killings of Christians, emphasizing that the security challenges faced are not motivated by religious bias. It underscores its commitment to protecting all citizens, regardless of their faith, and highlights ongoing efforts to address complex security issues. Furthermore, it urges the international community to approach such sensitive matters with caution to avoid exacerbating national tensions. Nigeria continues to promote peaceful coexistence and welcomes constructive dialogue.
Original Source: nta.ng
