President Bola Tinubu has once again dismissed claims that Christians or Muslims in Nigeria are being targeted for genocide. He emphasized that the insecurity currently affecting the country is not related to religious persecution but is instead rooted in criminality, terrorism, and historical and economic challenges.

Tinubu made this clarification on Friday in Abuja while opening the 8th Biennial Conference and Annual General Meeting of the Nasrul-Lahi-l-Fatih Society (NASFAT). The event was themed "Building Resilience in a Changing World: The Role of Faith and Community." He was represented at the conference by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN).

Addressing recent international allegations, Tinubu stated that Nigeria must counter what he termed false and harmful narratives that could instill fear and create religious tensions within the country. 

A few weeks prior, former United States President Donald Trump claimed that Christians were being targeted for killings in Nigeria and threatened possible military action if the Federal Government did not take action. He also designated Nigeria as a "Country of Particular Concern," a move that elicited strong reactions both locally and internationally. In response, the Federal Government sent a delegation led by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu to engage with U.S. lawmakers and clarify Nigeria's security situation.

Speaking at the NASFAT event, Tinubu asserted that these claims misrepresent the realities on the ground. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to national unity, religious freedom, and the protection of human life, urging both Nigerians and the international community to reject narratives that could further divide the country. 

He also praised NASFAT for its efforts in promoting peace and unity, highlighting that its teachings on moderation and tolerance are essential for Nigeria’s stability. During the conference, the keynote speaker, Dr. Nurudeen Lemu, encouraged Muslims to remain steadfast in their faith and optimistic despite the challenges facing the nation.