Reports of rising violence against Christian communities in Nigeria have sparked strong reactions from global leaders, with the United States, Italy, and local authorities all raising concerns about safety and accountability.
During an appearance on Fox News Radio’s The Brian Kilmeade Show, U.S. President Donald Trump repeated his claim that Christians in Nigeria are facing genocide. He described the situation as “a disgrace,” accusing the Nigerian government of failing to protect citizens from widespread violence. Trump also criticised Nigeria’s leadership for being “very ineffective,” adding that armed groups are “killing Christians at will.”
The comments came shortly after Nigerian security chiefs, led by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, met with U.S. officials, including Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, to discuss strategies for reducing violence and tackling extremist groups in West Africa. According to the U.S. side, the discussions focused on preventing further attacks on Christian communities and degrading terrorist networks in the region.
Italy has also weighed in. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni urged the Nigerian government to take decisive action against the perpetrators of recent attacks on Christian communities, calling the violence “heinous and unacceptable.” In a message shared on X, she emphasised that religious freedom must be protected and insisted that those responsible be brought to justice. Meloni also expressed solidarity with affected families and communities living in fear due to targeted violence.
In the United States, Congressman Riley Moore condemned the recent kidnapping of more than 300 children and 12 teachers from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Niger State. Describing the attacks as “heartbreaking,” Moore urged the Nigerian government to move urgently against armed groups in the Middle Belt. He accused certain militants of terrorising communities and argued that violence against Christians is escalating into genocide. Moore also called for closer cooperation between Nigeria and the U.S. to stop the killings and kidnappings.
Back home, President Bola Tinubu has restated his administration’s commitment to eliminating terrorist and bandit groups across Nigeria. During the 25th anniversary event of the Arewa Consultative Forum, Tinubu—represented by House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas—said that insecurity remains Nigeria’s most pressing challenge, particularly in the North. He stressed the need for unity, trust-building, and urgent action to prevent further economic and educational setbacks.
Tinubu noted that although his government inherited complex security issues, efforts are underway to reverse the trend. He expressed optimism about future economic opportunities in Northern Nigeria, including oil production from fields like Kolmani.
Meanwhile, the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Oluwatosin Ajayi, met with the president at the Presidential Villa to brief him on the latest attacks and abductions. Officials confirmed that Tinubu has established a joint task force involving all security agencies to track and rescue abducted schoolchildren in the northern states. The president has also directed the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, to relocate to Kebbi State to oversee rescue operations.
As international pressure mounts and local security strategies intensify, Nigeria faces renewed calls for accountability, stronger protection for vulnerable communities, and decisive government action to curb the ongoing violence.
