President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has strongly rejected recent remarks by former U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting that Nigeria is a nation plagued by religious intolerance.

In a firm statement issued from the State House, Abuja, President Tinubu emphasized that Nigeria remains a democracy anchored on constitutional guarantees of religious liberty and tolerance for all faiths.

According to the Nigerian leader, since assuming office in May 2023, his administration has maintained active engagement with both Christian and Muslim leaders across the country, to promote national unity, peace, and mutual understanding among citizens of diverse religious backgrounds.

He stated that his government continues to tackle security challenges that affect people of all faiths and regions, rejecting any characterization of Nigeria as a country hostile to religious diversity.

“The characterization of Nigeria as religiously intolerant does not reflect our national reality, nor does it take into consideration the consistent and sincere efforts of the government to safeguard freedom of religion and beliefs for all Nigerians,” Tinubu noted.

The President highlighted that religious freedom and tolerance have always been a core tenet of Nigeria’s national identity, stressing that his administration will continue to uphold and defend these values.

He further emphasized that Nigeria, as a secular state governed by its constitution, provides clear protections for citizens regardless of their faith or belief system.

“Nigeria is a country with constitutional guarantees to protect citizens of all faiths,” the statement reaffirmed.

“Our administration is committed to working with the United States government and the international community to deepen understanding and cooperation on the protection of communities of all faiths.”

Tinubu’s statement follows growing international commentary on religious conflicts and human rights issues within Nigeria, particularly in relation to communal violence in parts of the Middle Belt and northern regions.

However, the Nigerian government insists that such challenges are being addressed through inclusive policies, interfaith dialogue, and strengthened national security measures.