Trump’s comment may fuel more violence in Nigeria – FG

George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), has warned that recent remarks by US President Donald Trump on Nigeria’s security situation risk encouraging violent groups to exploit international narratives for fresh attacks

Trump recently described Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” and accused the federal government of ignoring attacks on Christians.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, Akume highlighted the evolution of violent extremism, the Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgency, and banditry in northern Nigeria.

He explained that insurgency in the country has developed along two main lines: ideological extremism in the north-east linked to global terrorist networks, and economically driven crises in the north-west, including illegal mining, cattle rustling, extortion, and kidnapping-for-ransom.

Akume stressed that both Muslims and Christians have been victimised, and no credible international body has labelled the conflict as genocide against Christians.

“No credible international institution has designated the crisis as genocide against Christians. Boko Haram and ISWAP attack both churches and mosques, killing Muslims and Christians alike,” he said, adding that bandits target all communities regardless of religion.

He traced part of Nigeria’s insecurity to weapons proliferation across the Sahel following the collapse of Libya and instability in Egypt after the 2011 uprisings. Akume noted that Nigeria lacked a proper legal framework to combat terrorism until the Terrorism Prevention Act was enacted after the Independence Day bombing by Henry Okah.

The SGF also outlined the history of Boko Haram, from its emergence in 2002 under Mohammed Yusuf, escalation under Abubakar Shekau, to its transition into ISWAP after pledging allegiance to ISIS in 2015. He said north-west banditry is largely driven by competition over land and water, illegal mining, cattle rustling, and organised kidnapping-for-ransom.

Citing recent mass-casualty events, Akume mentioned the June 2025 attack in Yelewata, Guma LGA of Benue, where at least 100 people were killed, requiring federal intervention.

He reassured that Nigeria’s armed forces remain “highly capable, experienced and professional,” adding that the country does not need foreign troops but would benefit from targeted support in intelligence, technology, and equipment.

“Recent pronouncements from the United States have inadvertently emboldened opportunistic violent groups seeking to exploit international narratives and make bold statements by attacking soft targets,” Akume said, noting that insurgent structures had been significantly weakened before these comments.

Akume reiterated that the government rejects any claims that the conflict constitutes genocide and is committed to protecting all citizens regardless of religion. He emphasized Nigeria’s secular character, reflected in federal appointments, including within the security council.

Outlining next steps, he called for strengthening nationwide security operations, expanding intelligence-sharing with the US and other allies, cracking down on illegal mining, and enhancing border security.

“Now is the time to speak with one strong and united voice to confront a common enemy — terrorists, bandits, and extremist insurgents — and eradicate them from our national borders,” Akume said.

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