President Bola Tinubu’s led federal government has rejected the United State’s Donald Trump’s move to designate Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” over Christian genocide claims.

“Christianity is facing an existential threat in Nigeria. Thousands of Christians are being killed,” Trump said in a Truth Social post on Friday.

The US president blamed radical Islamists for the “mass slaughter”.

In a statement on Saturday, Nigeria’s ministry of foreign affairs said the claims do not reflect the realities on the ground.

Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson of the ministry, said Nigerians of all faiths have long lived, worked, and worshipped together peacefully.

He said while Nigeria appreciates global concern for human rights and religious freedom, the allegations are misleading and contrary to the government’s sustained efforts to promote peace and unity.

“Nigeria notes the recent remarks by U.S. President Donald J. Trump alleging large-scale killings of Christians in Nigeria and calling for the country’s designation as a “Country of Particular Concern.”

“While Nigeria appreciates global concern for human rights and religious freedom, these claims do not reflect the situation on the ground. Nigerians of all faiths have long lived, worked, and worshipped together peacefully.

“Under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria remains committed to fighting terrorism, strengthening interfaith harmony, and protecting the lives and rights of all its people.

“Nigeria will continue to engage constructively with the Government of the United States to deepen mutual understanding of regional dynamics and the country’s ongoing peace and security efforts.”