President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s determination to defeat terrorism and strengthen diplomatic engagement, as the United States intensifies scrutiny over alleged persecution of Christians in Nigeria.
U.S. President Donald Trump recently designated Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern” and warned that Washington may consider tougher action if the rights and safety of Christian communities are not guaranteed. The move has drawn global attention to Nigeria’s security operations, particularly in the South-East and Middle Belt.
Speaking at Thursday’s Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting at the Presidential Villa—its first sitting since July—Tinubu said Nigeria is actively engaging with its international partners to address concerns and defend its national interests.
“We are engaging the world diplomatically, and I assure Nigerians that we will defeat terrorism,” Tinubu said before the cabinet went into closed session. “We must stay focused and committed to the Renewed Hope Agenda.”
He stressed that Nigeria remains united and committed to the protection of all citizens, regardless of ethnic or religious identity, and dismissed claims of systemic persecution.
“Despite external pressures and political narratives, we continue to work with global partners,” he added, citing the oversubscription of Nigeria’s recent $2.3bn Eurobond as evidence of international confidence in the economy.
Tinubu commended his cabinet for maintaining the pace of reform, urging continued discipline and coordination.
“The work ahead is substantial,” he said. “But we are determined to build a secure, stable, and prosperous nation.”
The government has consistently denied allegations of targeted killings, insisting that ongoing security operations are aimed at armed groups responsible for violence and criminality across the country.
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