The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has dismissed allegations of a Christian genocide in Nigeria, describing such claims as false, misleading, and capable of inciting division among citizens.
Speaking at a media briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, General Oluyede said the Armed Forces remain committed to protecting all Nigerians regardless of religion, ethnicity, or political affiliation, emphasizing that the military’s operations are driven by national security priorities, not religious bias.
“There is no genocide against Christians or any religious group in Nigeria,” the defence chief stated. “The military is non-partisan and non-religious. Our mission is to ensure peace and stability across the country, not to promote sectarian agendas.”
His comments come amid growing international reactions to recent claims by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who alleged that Christians in Nigeria were being targeted and hinted at possible U.S. military intervention.
General Oluyede urged foreign commentators to verify facts before making inflammatory statements, noting that such remarks could damage Nigeria’s image and threaten diplomatic relations.
He also highlighted the military’s ongoing efforts against insurgency, banditry, and other forms of insecurity, stressing that both Christians and Muslims have suffered from terrorist attacks.
“Our troops are dying daily to protect Nigerians of all faiths,” he said. “We should unite as a people to defeat common enemies, rather than allow external actors to divide us.”
The defence chief reiterated the government’s commitment to national unity and religious harmony, assuring that Nigeria would continue to collaborate with international partners through lawful and diplomatic channels, not coercive threats.
