Nigeria’s Defence Chief Refutes Trump’s Religious Allegations, Says Security Forces United Against Terrorism

Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, has dismissed claims that Christians are being persecuted in the country, insisting that terrorism not religion remains Nigeria’s biggest security challenge.

Speaking to reporters in Abuja, Oluyede rejected former U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent statement alleging that Islamic terrorists are targeting Christians in Nigeria.

“There are no Christians being persecuted in Nigeria,” Oluyede said. “Our major issue is terrorism, which affects everyone regardless of religion or tribe.”

He explained that the Nigerian Armed Forces have been working tirelessly to combat terrorism and improve national security, noting that President Bola Tinubu’s recent restructuring of the security system is already showing positive results.

“The President has brought in officers of proven integrity and experience in asymmetric warfare. This move is strengthening our operations across the country,” he added.

Oluyede reaffirmed the military’s commitment to restoring peace and stability, promising to intensify operations against terrorists and other criminal groups nationwide.

The Defence Chief also emphasized that terrorism is a global challenge, not unique to Nigeria, and called for international cooperation to tackle it.