The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs has rejected the United States’ designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern,” a label applied during former President Donald Trump’s administration. Council National Secretary Prof. Ishaq Oloyede called the claim of “Christian genocide” in Nigeria foreign propaganda intended to destabilise the country. Speaking in Abuja, he said the genocide narrative is false, politically motivated, and designed to inflame religious division. Oloyede stressed that there is no evidence that Nigerian Muslims are persecuting Christians; both Muslims and Christians are victims of terrorism and criminality.
He attributed Nigeria’s insecurity to terrorism, poverty and climate change, which have sparked violent clashes over resources. The Muslim ummah cited independent investigations by organisations such as Amnesty International, which found that the violence does not meet the legal definition of genocide under international law. Oloyede also suggested that the push to label Nigeria a religious‑persecution zone intensified after the country reaffirmed its support for a two‑state solution in Palestine at the United Nations.
The Islamic Council called on Nigerians to reject foreign interference and resist attempts to turn genuine security challenges into sectarian conflict. Oloyede urged the United States to withdraw its statement and instead provide intelligence and logistical aid to combat terrorism. The council also appealed to the Nigerian government to strengthen security, expose sponsors of banditry, and protect all citizens regardless of faith.
This development follows President Trump’s threat of military action over alleged killings of Christians, after his earlier designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern. The Nigerian government has repeatedly rejected Trump’s claims, urging the United States and other partners to support its efforts to address insecurity. The Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs reaffirmed its commitment to unity, peace and justice, and called on all Nigerians to work together to tackle the country’s security challenges. The council’s stance underscores the need for a nuanced understanding of Nigeria’s complex issues and the importance of avoiding simplistic, divisive narratives that could exacerbate tensions.
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