Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has dismissed allegations of religious persecution in Nigeria, describing them as “impossible” under the country’s constitutional framework.
Tuggar made the remarks on Tuesday in Berlin during a meeting with Germany’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Johann Wadephul, amid renewed international concerns over alleged religious violence in Nigeria.
The minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to religious freedom and the rule of law, insisting that no level of government—federal, state, or local—could lawfully endorse or engage in persecution on the basis of faith.
“It is impossible for there to be religious persecution supported in any way, shape, or form by the government of Nigeria,” Tuggar said. “Our constitution guarantees freedom of religion and makes such actions unthinkable.”
His statement follows renewed scrutiny after former U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly reclassified Nigeria as a “country of particular concern,” alleging that the Nigerian government has failed to protect Christians from violent attacks.
Tuggar, however, maintained that the Nigerian government remains committed to promoting peaceful coexistence among all religious groups and addressing security challenges through lawful means.
He added that Nigeria’s multi-religious and multi-ethnic nature makes respect for diversity not just a constitutional duty, but a cornerstone of national unity.
