FG Dismisses Claims of Religious Persecution, Urges Accurate Narratives on Nigeria

The Federal Government has dismissed claims that Nigeria violates religious freedom, describing them as false and damaging to the country’s international image. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said such allegations distort the reality of Nigeria’s diversity.

Idris made the remarks on Thursday at the 5th National Advertising Conference held in Abuja, emphasising that while Nigeria faces economic and security challenges, these are not religiously motivated. He noted that the nation has long been home to diverse peoples and faiths who have coexisted peacefully.

“All Nigerians Christians, Muslims, and people of other faiths have suffered from terrorism and banditry,” the minister explained, adding that the present administration is investing in security and reorganizing its structures to combat these threats.

He said the government has strengthened its security architecture, rejigged command structures, and introduced fresh strategies to address terrorism effectively, ensuring the safety of all citizens.

The conference, organised by the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), carried the theme, “Marketing Communication: Transforming Business and Creating Growth in Challenging Times.” Idris urged media and marketing professionals to promote accurate narratives about Nigeria to counter misinformation.

“You are not only storytellers for brands and businesses you are also custodians of national perception and image. When false narratives about Nigeria are spread especially internationally it is your creativity, strategy, and storytelling that can counterbalance them with truth, context, and compelling narratives of hope and progress,” the minister stated.

“We need a communication renaissance one that emphasises facts over fear, unity over division, and truth over propaganda,” he added, stressing the role of professionals in promoting national unity and positive public perception.

Idris also reaffirmed that his ministry would continue collaborating with ARCON and stakeholders to strengthen the advertising and communication industry, while implementing the National Values Charter Framework to promote truth, integrity, patriotism, and national pride. The statement comes amid recent claims by former U.S. President Donald Trump alleging persecution of Christians in Nigeria, which the FG has rejected.