CDS Oluyede dismisses claims of Christian persecution in Nigeria, says focus remains on terrorism

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, has dismissed allegations of widespread persecution of Christians in Nigeria, insisting that the country’s main security challenge remains terrorism.

The controversy over alleged religious targeting reignited last week after U.S. President Donald Trump listed Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) and warned that the United States might consider military action if the Nigerian government failed to protect Christians.

“If the Nigerian Government continues to allow the killing of Christians, the USA will immediately stop all aid and assistance to Nigeria, and may very well go into that now disgraced country, ‘guns-a-blazing,’” Trump stated.

Addressing journalists in Abuja on Monday, General Oluyede refuted Trump’s claim that Islamic extremists were systematically targeting Christians. He maintained that the Nigerian Armed Forces have continued to intensify operations against terrorist groups while focusing on safeguarding national security.

“There are no Christians being persecuted in Nigeria. We are facing insecurity, especially terrorism, and it’s something that has been affecting Nigeria for quite some time now,” he said.

The Defence Chief added that President Bola Tinubu recently strengthened the country’s security structure by appointing experienced officers skilled in asymmetric warfare to enhance military effectiveness.

“We’re going to add more to what we’re doing, add more impetus to our operations, and ensure that we checkmate this act of terrorism within Nigeria,” he added.

General Oluyede also noted that terrorism is a global challenge that requires joint efforts among nations.

“There are several countries that are challenged in that respect, and it calls for collective effort. So if we have countries ready to support Nigeria, we are open to cooperation in order to checkmate terrorism within our space,” he stated.