The Federal Government of Nigeria says President Bola Tinubu remains composed and fixed on national security despite threats of possible military action from U.S. President Donald Trump. Briefing reporters after a meeting at the Presidential Villa, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the President is engaging partners and working to ensure the international community understands Nigeria’s record and ongoing efforts.
“Calm isn’t complacency.”
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FG SAYS: “Mr President is calm. He is looking at the whole situation and the ways to ensure the international community understands what we have been doing,” Idris said, adding that Tinubu’s priority is a safer country for every citizen, regardless of tribe or religion.
The minister pointed to recent changes in the security hierarchy, including the appointment of a new Chief of Defence Staff and other Service Chiefs, as evidence of an active reset of Nigeria’s security architecture. He dismissed claims that the government tolerates or favors violence against any faith group, the central allegation behind Trump’s warning and the U.S. decision to place Nigeria on its list of Countries of Particular Concern for religious freedom violations.
“For us to be characterized as a country that is not tolerant when it comes to religion is not accurate. This is absolutely false,” Idris said, noting that the constitution guarantees freedom of religion without let or hindrance. He argued that ongoing insecurity is driven by extremist elements that profit from division, not by state policy.
“We have security challenges, but there has been no decision anywhere to favor one religion over another or to inflict violence on any faith,” he said. “What has happened is that extremists are driving a narrative that seeks to divide Nigerians.”
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Idris urged citizens to close ranks. “This is not a time for division or rhetoric,” he said. “It is a time for nation building.” He added that Abuja would continue diplomatic outreach while pressing ahead with security reforms, community protection, and accountability for crimes, with the goal of de-escalation at home and a clearer picture of Nigeria’s efforts abroad.
