Keyamo Writes Trump: “No Targeted Killings of Christians in Nigeria”

Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has dismissed claims by U.S. President Donald Trump alleging widespread or targeted killings of Christians in Nigeria, describing the accusations as “false and misleading.”

In an open letter shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Wednesday, Keyamo urged Trump to rely on credible information and deepen cooperation with Nigeria in the fight against terrorism instead of “echoing inaccurate external narratives.”

Keyamo, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and a longtime human rights lawyer, noted that as a Christian himself, it would be “unconscionable” for him to serve in any administration that targets Christians.

“It is simply not true that Christians are being specifically targeted in Nigeria for persecution, killings, or harassment on account of their faith,” he stated.

He explained that Nigeria’s security challenges stem largely from extremist and criminal groups — including Boko Haram, bandits, and armed herdsmen — who attack citizens indiscriminately, regardless of religion.

The minister highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s record as a tolerant and inclusive leader, pointing out that his wife is a Pentecostal pastor and many of his top appointees, including service chiefs, are Christians.

“Nigeria is a secular state,” Keyamo wrote. “Our Constitution guarantees freedom of religion and prohibits the adoption of a state religion.”

He added that even opposition leaders have acknowledged that the ongoing insecurity is not religiously motivated, urging Trump and the U.S. government to engage with verified sources before drawing conclusions.

Keyamo concluded by calling for stronger bilateral relations between Nigeria and the U.S., emphasizing that both nations share a common goal of combating terrorism and promoting peace.