Modupe Olalere
President Bola Tinubu has firmly dismissed claims of religious genocide in Nigeria, stating that the country is not experiencing either a Christian or Muslim genocide but is instead battling terrorism fueled by criminality and extremism.
Speaking in Abuja at the opening of the Nasrul-Lahi-l-Fatih Society (NASFAT) 8th Biennial Conference and Annual General Meeting, President Tinubu stressed that Nigeria’s security challenges are often misrepresented. The event, themed “Building Resilience in a Changing World: The Role of Faith and Community,” brought together faith leaders and stakeholders from across the country. The President was represented at the gathering by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi.
President Tinubu said the Federal Government has had to confront what he described as unfounded and dangerous allegations that Nigeria targets specific religious groups. According to him, such narratives are not only false but also capable of inflaming tensions and undermining the fragile peace and coexistence the nation continues to build.
He made it clear that Nigeria does not promote or tolerate policies that persecute any religion. Instead, he explained that the violence affecting parts of the country is rooted in long-standing historical, economic, and criminal factors rather than religious hostility.
The President emphasized that both Muslims and Christians have been victims of terrorism and that people of both faiths stand united in condemning violence in all its forms. Reiterating his position, he said there is no Christian genocide and no Muslim genocide in Nigeria, only terrorism driven by criminal networks and extremist elements, which the government is actively working to defeat.
President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to national unity, religious freedom, and the protection of every Nigerian life. He urged citizens to reject divisive narratives, whether promoted locally or from outside the country, warning against allowing stereotypes and misinformation to fracture the nation.
He described Nigeria’s diversity as a source of strength, noting that the ability of citizens to live together, worship differently, and still see one another as compatriots remains one of the country’s greatest assets. In this context, he praised faith-based organisations such as NASFAT for their role in promoting moderation, tolerance, and service to humanity.
According to the President, such values offer practical pathways to resolving conflict and strengthening national unity. He encouraged continued efforts toward peaceful coexistence, respect for diversity, and mutual understanding, describing Nigeria’s differences as a divine design rather than a cause for conflict.
Beyond security and unity, President Tinubu spoke on ongoing economic reforms, saying the Federal Government is implementing bold measures to stabilise the economy, restore investor confidence, attract investment, and create opportunities for Nigerians. While acknowledging the temporary hardships many citizens are facing, he assured the public that steps are being taken to expand social support and speed up the benefits of these reforms.
He also pledged to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture to protect all citizens, regardless of religion, ethnicity, or location. However, he noted that government efforts alone are not enough, calling on institutions like NASFAT to help reinforce the moral and spiritual foundations of society.
President Tinubu concluded by stressing that good governance must go hand in hand with strong values, discipline, integrity, and purposeful action. He called on faith leaders and organisations to continue partnering with government to promote peace, reduce tension, counter misinformation, and nurture unity and patriotism across the country.