Abuja: The Nigerian government on Saturday rejected remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump alleging large-scale killings of Christians in the country and declaring Nigeria a "country of particular concern."

According to Namibia Press Agency, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement refuting Trump's claims, stating that they did not reflect the current realities in Nigeria, which faces a range of security challenges. The statement emphasized that Nigeria appreciates global concern for human rights and religious freedom but maintained that the assertions do not accurately represent the situation on the ground. It noted that Nigerians of all faiths have historically lived, worked, and worshipped together peacefully.

The statement further highlighted the Nigerian government's commitment to fighting terrorism, promoting interfaith harmony, and safeguarding the lives and rights of all citizens. It also mentioned Nigeria's ongoing efforts to engage constructively with the U.S. government to deepen mutual understanding of regional dynamics and the country's ongoing initiatives for peace and security.

The Nigerian government's response was prompted by a post from Trump on the social media platform Truth Social on Friday. In the post, Trump alleged that thousands of Christians are being killed in Nigeria by "radical Islamists," whom he accused of orchestrating a "mass slaughter."