Defence Chief refutes claims of Christian persecution in Nigeria
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, has refuted claims that Christians are being persecuted in Nigeria, insisting that the country’s main security challenge remains terrorism.
Speaking to State House correspondents in Abuja on Monday, November 3, Oluyede dismissed U.S. President Donald Trump’s assertion that a “Christian genocide” is taking place in Nigeria, allegedly carried out by Islamic extremists.
“There are no Christians being persecuted in Nigeria. We are facing insecurity, especially terrorism, and it’s something that has affected Nigeria for quite some time now,” he said.
The Defence Chief emphasized that the Nigerian Armed Forces are working tirelessly to tackle terrorism and enhance national security. He noted that recent restructuring of the country’s security framework has strengthened military operations against criminal groups.
“You will recall that just last week, the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, recalibrated the security architecture by bringing on board officers of proven integrity who are seasoned in asymmetric warfare to add impetus to our operations,” Oluyede explained.
He assured Nigerians that the military would intensify its campaigns against terrorists and other criminal elements nationwide, adding, “We’re going to add more impetus to our operations and ensure that we checkmate acts of terrorism within Nigeria.”
Oluyede also described terrorism as a global problem requiring international collaboration, noting that several countries face similar challenges.
“There are many nations grappling with terrorism, and it calls for collective effort. If there are countries willing to support Nigeria, we are ready to work with them to combat terrorism within our borders,” he said.
