The Federal Government of Nigeria has responded to the recent redesignation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) by President Donald Trump of the United States of America over issues of religious freedom.
Recall that Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reported that President Trump declared that he redesignated Nigeria as CPC.
This was due to allegations of genocide against Christians in the country.
See a screenshot of Trump’s statement, as shared by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, below:
Nigerian Government responds
Following the recent statement by the United States of America on religious freedom in Nigeria, the federal government regretted the decision.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs made the remarks in press release issued in Abuja and signed by the Ministry’s Spokesperson, Mr. Kimiebi lmomotimi Ebienfa.
Mr. Ebienfa said that the government said it ‘mourned all the victims of violent extremism’.
Ebienfa noted that the government pledged to “continue to fight against vicious but cowardly foes”.
The Federal Government also assured that it will continue to defend its citizens, regardless of race, creed, or religion.
The statement reads: “The Federal Government has noted the recent statement by the United States… on religious freedom in Nigeria.
“We remain committed in our resolve to tackle the violent extremism that is fueled by special interests.
‘[These] have helped drive such decay and division in countries across the intersecting West African and Sahel regions.
“We mourn all the victims of violent extremism and salute our armed forces as they continue to fight against vicious but cowardly foes.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria will continue to defend all citizens, irrespective of race, creed, or religion.
Like America, Nigeria has no option but to celebrate the diversity that is our greatest strength.
“Nigeria is a God-fearing country where we respect faith, tolerance, diversity and inclusion, in concurrence with the rules-based international order.
“The US has been – and we trust will always remain – a close ally…
“The Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the Government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will maintain our laser focus and steadfast commitment to all partners who believe in genuine peace, stability, freedom and democracy,” Ebienfa added.
