By Fatima Saka
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has firmly rejected any characterization of Nigeria as a country that tolerates religious persecution, affirming that the nation remains a democracy built on constitutional guarantees of freedom of religion and belief.
Responding to a recent statement by the President of the United States on the possible designation of Nigeria among “Countries of Particular Concern” (CPC) over alleged violations of religious freedom, President Tinubu emphasized that such a description does not reflect Nigeria’s reality.
“Nigeria stands firmly as a democracy governed by constitutional guarantees of religious liberty,” the President stated. “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.”
Tinubu maintained that the Nigerian government has remained consistent and sincere in safeguarding the rights of all citizens regardless of their religious beliefs. He noted that religious freedom and tolerance are integral to Nigeria’s national identity and will always remain so.
“The characterization 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,” he said.
Reiterating that Nigeria opposes all forms of religious persecution, the President assured that his administration is committed to continued cooperation with the United States and the wider international community to enhance understanding and promote peaceful coexistence among communities of all faiths.
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“Nigeria is a country with constitutional guarantees to protect citizens of all faiths,” Tinubu stressed. “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.”
The President’s statement underscores Nigeria’s long-standing position as a multi-religious society that values dialogue, tolerance, and unity as essential foundations of its democracy.
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