Defence Chief Denies Claims of Christian Persecution, Says Nigeria’s Main Threat Remains Terrorism

Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede has denied claims of Christian persecution in Nigeria.

He said the nation’s main challenge is terrorism, not religion-based violence, and urged global cooperation.

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, has dismissed allegations that Christians are being persecuted in Nigeria, insisting that the country’s main security challenge remains terrorism rather than religion-based violence.

Addressing journalists at the State House in Abuja on Monday, General Oluyede rejected claims by U.S. President Donald Trump, who recently alleged that Islamic extremists were carrying out a “Christian genocide” in Nigeria. The Defence Chief described such remarks as misleading, noting that the nation’s ongoing security concerns cut across all regions and religions.

“There are no Christians being persecuted in Nigeria. What we are dealing with is insecurity, particularly terrorism, which has affected the country for quite some time,” he said.

Oluyede explained that the Armed Forces have been working tirelessly to combat terrorism and restore peace in affected areas. He pointed out that recent reforms initiated by President Bola Tinubu have strengthened the country’s defence system. According to him, the restructuring of the military command has introduced new energy and professionalism into ongoing operations.

“The President, Commander-in-Chief, recently recalibrated the security system by bringing in officers of proven integrity and experience in asymmetric warfare to reinforce our operations,” he stated.

The Defence Chief assured Nigerians that the military remains committed to intensifying its campaigns against terrorism, banditry, and other criminal activities. He stressed that the armed forces are constantly improving their strategies and coordination to ensure lasting security. “We are adding more drive to what we are doing and will continue to ensure that terrorism is contained within Nigeria,” he said.

Oluyede also noted that terrorism is not unique to Nigeria, describing it as a global issue that requires cooperation among nations. He called for stronger international support and intelligence sharing to strengthen Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts. “Several countries are also facing similar threats, and we welcome assistance from our partners to help us tackle terrorism within our borders,” he added.