US Designates Nigeria Country of Particular Concern Over Religious Persecution Amid Nigerian Government Rejection

President Donald Trump designated Nigeria as a "Country of Particular Concern" (CPC) due to alleged mass killings of Christians by radical Islamists, calling the situation an "existential threat" to Christianity and pledging U.S. support to protect persecuted Christians globally. The move was praised by figures such as rapper Nicki Minaj and advocacy groups like ADF International, who welcomed the designation as a step toward addressing religious persecution in Nigeria. Meanwhile, the Nigerian government strongly rejected Trump's claims, stating that the allegations do not reflect the realities on the ground and emphasizing Nigeria's ongoing efforts to promote peace, interfaith harmony, and fight terrorism under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Nigerian officials expressed willingness to engage constructively with the U.S. to deepen mutual understanding of regional dynamics and security efforts. The designation has sparked domestic and international debate on the severity and nature of religious persecution in Nigeria, with legislative actions proposed in the U.S. to protect persecuted Christians. Overall, the situation highlights tensions between U.S. concerns over religious freedom and Nigeria's insistence on its internal progress and harmony.