Nigerian Students Warn Trump Against Religious Conflict Over ‘Genocide’ Claims

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has urged U.S. President Donald Trump to avoid making statements that could inflame religious tensions in Nigeria.

The student body described Trump’s recent claim of genocide against Christians in Nigeria as a “pure fallacy,” warning that portraying the country’s security challenges as targeted religious attacks could create unnecessary division among citizens.

President Trump had recently called Nigeria a country of “particular concern,” alleging an ongoing genocide against Christians and hinting at potential U.S. military intervention.

In response, NANS National Vice President for Inter-Campus and Gender Affairs, Akinbodunse Sileola Felicia, criticized Trump’s statement, saying that giving a religious colour to Nigeria’s security crisis could worsen distrust and fuel disunity.

“Christians and Muslims alike have suffered from terrorism, banditry, and kidnappings in Nigeria. Singling out Christians ignores the reality on the ground,” Akinbodunse said. She challenged Trump to show genuine concern for Nigerian Christians by making U.S. visas free for them, rather than fanning religious discord.

The student leader further urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to intensify efforts against insecurity, particularly in Plateau and Benue states, and stressed that only a total defeat of insurgency would disprove Trump’s “false genocide narrative.”