Group denounces Trump’s genocide allegations, urges diplomacy over force in Nigeria

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has rejected claims that Christians in Nigeria are victims of genocide, warning that such assertions misrepresent the country’s complex security situation and could undermine national unity.


In a statement released on Wednesday, the group’s chairman, Salihu Sulaiman, said insecurity in Nigeria should not be simplified as a case of religious persecution, emphasizing that the unrest stems from political, ethnic, and economic tensions.

Sulaiman voiced concern over what he described as an “alarming surge in rhetoric” portraying Nigeria as a nation engaged in systematic extermination of Christians. He warned that these narratives distort the truth and risk aggravating existing divisions.

He said: “We wish to clarify that the situation in Nigeria is not a straightforward case of religious persecution but rather a multifaceted crisis characterized by political, ethnic, and economic dimensions.


“In recent months, there has been an alarming surge in rhetoric suggesting that Christians in Nigeria are facing systematic extermination. Such assertions, while emotionally charged, lack a comprehensive understanding of the prevailing circumstances.

“The ongoing violence in Nigeria has predominantly affected various communities, including Muslims and Christians alike, with extremist groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP targeting individuals based on their religious affiliations indiscriminately.


“The timeline of attacks on Muslim worshippers from 2013 to 2025 starkly illustrates this point, highlighting that violence is not confined to any single religious group.

“As we reflect on these harrowing incidents, it is crucial to recognize that the narrative of genocide serves to deepen divisions within our society rather than foster unity in the face of shared challenges. The Northern Awareness Network urges all stakeholders, including international partners, to approach the situation with nuance and an understanding of its complexities.

“In light of these concerns, we wish to caution President Donald Trump against hasty military interventions in Nigeria. Such actions could exacerbate the already fragile state of our democracy, risking further destabilization in a country that is striving towards political maturity and social cohesion.”


Sulaiman further cautioned former U.S. President Donald Trump against responding to calls for military action in Nigeria, saying such moves could jeopardize the nation’s fragile democracy.

He added, “One of the most pressing threats to Nigeria’s democracy is posed by individuals such as Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. Wike’s recent maneuvers to destabilize political parties, including the African Democratic Congress.

“The Labour Party, and the Peoples Democratic Party, reveal a troubling pattern of subjugation of opposition voices. His actions not only threaten the integrity of our political system but also jeopardize the rule of law and democratic governance in Nigeria.


“Wike’s dangerous machinations have the potential to incite political unrest, further polarizing an already divided populace. We urge President Trump to redirect his attention towards safeguarding democracy in Nigeria by imposing sanctions on Wike and his co-conspirators, including visa bans that would hold them accountable for their actions.

“Such measures would send a clear message that the international community stands firm against the erosion of democratic principles and the rule of law.”

The NAN called for a measured and informed global response to Nigeria’s challenges, advocating for peacebuilding and dialogue rather than military interference.

It said : “The Northern Awareness Network calls for a balanced and informed approach to Nigeria’s challenges. We advocate for a focus on fostering dialogue, promoting peace, and ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs, can coexist harmoniously.


“We believe that the U.S. can play a vital role in supporting these efforts by prioritizing diplomacy over military intervention and holding accountable those who threaten our democratic institutions.”