President Bola Tinubu has tagged the X handle of U.S. President Donald Trump in his 2025 Christmas message, as Nigeria faces renewed pressure from the United States over allegations of targeted violence against Christians.
Nigeria was recently redesignated a “Country of Particular Concern” under the U.S. International Religious Freedom Act, following reports alleging attacks on Christians by Islamist militants.
In his Christmas message, Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to religious freedom, stressing that his administration is duty-bound to protect all Nigerians regardless of faith. He said his office remains committed to safeguarding religious liberty and ensuring that no citizen suffers violence or discrimination for practising their beliefs.
The President highlighted the contributions of Christians to Nigeria’s development, noting their impact across various sectors. He also acknowledged the role of Christian organisations and individuals in caring for the vulnerable, promoting peace, tolerance, and social harmony.
Tinubu urged Nigerians to draw hope and faith from the Christmas season, especially in the face of national challenges, adding that unity and shared values must continue to bind the country together. He emphasised that love for God and humanity is central to all major religions and should strengthen Nigeria’s cohesion as a diverse society.
The renewed diplomatic tension follows the reinstatement of Nigeria’s CPC designation by Donald Trump on October 31, 2025. Trump described the violence as a serious threat and warned of severe consequences, including the possibility of cutting off U.S. aid, if the Nigerian government failed to act.
The CPC designation has been a long-standing issue in U.S.–Nigeria relations. Nigeria was first placed on the list in December 2020 during Trump’s first term but was removed in November 2021 under the Biden administration, a move that drew criticism from U.S. lawmakers and religious freedom advocates.
Successive Nigerian governments, including the current Tinubu administration, have consistently rejected claims of religious genocide, maintaining that security challenges in the country are complex and not driven by state-sponsored religious persecution.
