The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has criticised the decision of former United States President Donald Trump’s administration to designate Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged persecution of Christians.
Speaking in Abuja on Sunday, NSCIA Secretary General, Professor Ishaq Oloyede, described the move as unjust, biased, and rooted in a one-sided narrative. He said the claim misrepresents Nigeria’s security realities, as both Muslims and Christians have suffered from terrorism and violence.
Oloyede stressed that the country’s insecurity challenges are driven by political, ethnic, and economic factors rather than religion. He urged the U.S. government to support Nigeria in combating insecurity instead of promoting divisive narratives.
“The terrorists are killing Christians and Muslims alike. This is not a religious war. What we need from the international community is cooperation, not condemnation,” Oloyede said.
He called on Nigerians to reject foreign attempts to create disunity and instead focus on peace and dialogue. The NSCIA also urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts to restore security and stability across the country.
