By Tunde Rahman

In an age when the lines between truth and falsehood are getting increasingly blurred, I was nonplussed when President Trump labelled Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern on October 31. My incredulity was heightened given that his action stemmed from unproven allegations of genocide against Christians. Was it another deepfake facilitated through AI or simply a case of mistaken identity?

I was of the view that President Trump might have actually meant another country, and not Nigeria. He had, after all, adopted a similar approach in December 2020, which proved quite unsuccessful. President Biden, who succeeded him in office, rightly removed the designation barely a year later, in November 2021, convinced, as most had been, that Trump’s action was based on unverified allegations.

The US President has since doubled down on the labelling, threatening to take military action against Nigeria’s Islamists and terrorists. My scepticism derived from the premise that the facts on the ground, indeed the Nigerian situation, do not align with what can be termed a Christian genocide or genocide of any sort, as exemplified in the recent Israeli massacre of Palestinian people, including children.

It is thus not surprising that top Nigerian government functionaries – from Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggah and Minister of Information and National Orientation Idris Mohammed, as well as most commentators – have already debunked the claim of Christian genocide or wholly Christian killings in Nigeria. The country may still be having some security issues to contend with; however, they argue that there are no targeted killings of Christians, let alone a Christian genocide.

Indeed, a recent investigative report by the BBC Global Disinformation Unit has picked holes in the threadbare claims of a “Christian genocide” in Nigeria. In very stark details, the report highlights how the International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety) and allied Igbo ethnic advocacy and pro-Biafra groups circulated inflated figures and unverified narratives.

Titled “Are Christians Being Persecuted in Nigeria as Trump Claims?” the report was authored by Olaronke Alo and Chiamaka Enendu of the BBC Global Disinformation Unit, along with a Lagos-based journalist, Ijeoma Ndukwe. The writers examined the origins and veracity of claims that over 125,000 Christians had been killed and 19,000 churches burned down in Nigeria since 2009.

Apparently driven by some ulterior motive, when contacted by the BBC, Intersociety, which first disseminated the allegation of Christian killings, failed to provide enumerated data or verifiable sources to substantiate its claims and demonstrate the integrity of the figures and their conclusions. Instead, the organisation accused the BBC of being politically compromised. Unfortunately, these unreliable data cobbled by Intersociety were the exact figures cited by the Conservative Media in the US, and prominent politicians like Senator Ted Cruz and Congressman Riley Moore. Sadly, these same figures were what President Trump relied upon in his designation of Nigeria as a CPC.

The point is: there is no Christian persecution or mass killings in Nigeria. There are no state-sanctioned killings of Christians. The state does not condone it, as Nigeria has no state religion. President Bola Tinubu is a moderate Muslim who allows religious freedom in his household. He is not a religious fundamentalist. A man who so liberally allows religious freedom in his household cannot conceivably turn around and disallow the same in the larger society.

Beyond that, however, and that piece of good journalism and useful revelation by the BBC, which laid bare the claim of Nigerian Christian genocide, the CPC labelling nonetheless offers a useful cautionary tale in crisis management. And this is why the government’s response to the challenge has been subtle and restrained. It is indeed the right thing to do, given the threat that it represents – albeit for the wrong reason.

It may sound paradoxical, but the best way to prove that an argument proceeds from a false premise is by continually pointing out the falsehood therefrom. It’s truly heart-warming that the government has continued to navigate the present critical situation carefully, handling the matter diplomatically and laying out the facts and proper position of things to President Trump, the US Conservative Media, the evangelicals and politicians. That way, they can see their mistake and make informed decisions.

The ongoing momentum of the reforms undertaken by President Tinubu, which has engendered economic recovery, a slowdown in inflation, naira stability, and the gradual return of investors, must be maintained and carefully nurtured so that no development endangers it. The government must continue to stay on course. Remarkably, despite some fluctuations in the naira exchange rate over the past few days, the global investor confidence in the growing positive prospects of the Nigerian economy has remained on the rise. This is evident in the oversubscription of the country’s $2.3 billion eurobond last week.

Reacting to the development, last Thursday, during the Federal Executive Council meeting in Abuja, as he inaugurated two new ministers appointed to fill the cabinet vacancies, President Tinubu disclosed that the Federal Government was engaging diplomatically with the world on the issue.

“The most important thing is the fact that despite the political headwinds and the fear of our people, we will continue to engage with partners. The success of the $2.3 billion eurobond, which investors oversubscribed by 400%, is the most reassuring. So, the task ahead is immense; we are engaging the world diplomatically, and we assure all of you that we will defeat terrorism in this country.”

With the recent rejig of the nation’s military and security apparatus, following the appointment of new service chiefs and a reshuffle within the intelligence circle, the battle against terrorism, banditry, and violent crimes will be reinvigorated. President Tinubu implored Nigerians not to succumb to despair, assuring that the government would defeat every form of terrorism and secure every part of the country.

“Do we have problems? Yes. Are we challenged by terrorism? Yes. But we will defeat terrorism. We will overcome the CPC designation. Nigeria is one happy family, and we shall spare no effort until we eliminate all criminals from our society. We want our friends to help us as we step up our fight against terrorism, and we will eliminate it,” he said.

What the nation requires now are patriotic voices. Our leaders must stand up to be counted, while politicians, too, must drop their divisive togas and don the patriotic cap in defence of the country. The present challenge is neither about Nigerian Christians nor about the war against terrorists. There are clearly some other underlying motives. The US President cannot possibly love Nigeria more than the people of Nigeria. Former Kano State governor and National Leader of the Nigeria National Peoples Party, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and former Foreign Affairs Minister and ex-Jigawa State governor, who is also a top chieftain of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, Alhaji Sule Lamido, have seen through this unfair designation and have led the way in this direction.

More Nigerian leaders need to speak up as statesmen. By presenting the facts to President Trump and the international community in a convincing and non-adversarial manner, we must demonstrate that we are not a disgraced people and that Nigeria is by no means a “disgraced country.”

In all of this, though, we mustn’t fail to note the befuddling silence in the typically voluble quarters of our political space. So, it is fitting to ask: Where are former President Olusegun Obasanjo and his former deputy and defeated PDP 2023 presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, who is preparing for another presidential run in 2027, at this critical moment?

-Rahman is Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Special Duties.

By Dr. Dele Oluwatade

The recent rumoured coup attempt in Nigeria in October 2025 underscores the pressing need for a fundamental shift in the nation’s governmental structure to prevent future coups. Adopting a confederation system would be a viable solution, making it extremely challenging for any single group to seize control of the entire country.

Nigeria’s current unitary system, coupled with a half-hearted presidential structure, remains vulnerable to both political and military coups. The absence of a simultaneous approach to problem-solving has exacerbated the nation’s challenges. The recent coup attempt can be attributed to legislative and executive sluggishness in addressing terrorism and insecurity.

President Tinubu’s task is reminiscent of Esther’s biblical mission (“If I perish, I perish”), highlighting the urgent need to rescue Nigeria’s diverse nationalities from Fulani hostilities without delay. This is as crucial as implementing economic reforms. The lack of parallel political reforms has exposed the nation to political and military opportunists.

In a confederation system, the likelihood of a successful coup would be significantly reduced. With at least four autonomous states, it’s likely that some would reject such an attempt, thereby preventing a single group from dominating the entire country.

To address this issue, the following steps become essential:
Constitutional Review: The National Assembly should review and consider implementing a confederation system for Nigeria before the end of 2025.
Prioritizing Political Reforms: The government should prioritize political reforms to support ongoing economic reforms.
Developing a Confederation Model: Nigerian strategists and political experts should develop a suitable confederation model that would prevent both political and military coups, making it difficult for any group to take over the six autonomous confederation republics.

Dr. Dele Oluwatade
Former National President, Christian Association of Nigeria ( YOUTH-CAN).

By Sunday Dare

It was about development. It was about good governance. It was about progressive politics. But more deeply, it was about recognition, respect, and renewal — a heartfelt connection between President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and a region with a proud history and boundless potential.

In Owerri, the capital of Imo State — right in the cultural and political heart of the South East — President Tinubu did more than commission infrastructure. He touched hearts, affirmed bonds, and renewed trust.

Just like in every other state he has visited in the past few weeks, the atmosphere in Imo was electric. Excitement filled the streets, hope filled the air, and expectations were met with substance. This was not a visit of empty gestures — it was a visit grounded in action and guided by intent.

This was President Tinubu’s second official visit to Imo State since taking office. His first was in January 2024, for the inauguration of Governor Hope Uzodimma’s second term. This return was not just a ceremonial trip — it was a deliberate step in building a deeper partnership with the people of the South East.

“Today, I can confidently tell you — the worst is over,” the President declared.

These words, from a leader speaking directly to a region that has known both triumph and trials, were not just a statement of policy. They were a promise. A reassurance. A turning point.

Projects that Speak Louder than Promises

The President, accompanied by 22 APC Governors, and the National Chairman of the APC Professor Nantawe, came bearing visible evidence of federal partnership and regional development. Gov. Hope Nzodimma, the Chairman of the Progressive Governor’s Forum literarily brought Nigeria to Owerri, Igbo heartland. A feat that speaks to his political clout and foresightedness. Nigeria converged on Imo State to bear witness to the Progressive development in Imo State.

Key legacy projects commissioned include:

The Imo Concorde Hilton Hotel – revived as a symbol of Imo’s re‑emergence as a destination for tourism and business.

The Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Conference Centre – a new home for regional and continental dialogue.

The Asumpta Flyover – easing congestion and improving connectivity across the capital.

The Imo Digital Learning Centre – investing in the youth through technology and education.

The Owerri–Mbaise–Obowo–Umuahia Road – a lifeline for communities, farmers, and businesses across Imo and Abia States. This road is especially symbolic. It connects people — literally and figuratively. It shortens distances, reduces travel costs, and expands opportunity. For agrarian communities like Mbaise and Obowo, it brings markets closer and futures within reach. For traders and commuters, it brings safety, efficiency, and dignity back to mobility.

A Party, A Book, A Legacy

Before the formal unveiling of the book, ‘A Decade of Impactful Progressive Governance in Nigeria’, authored by Governor Uzodinma, President Tinubu rose to address the gathering. He began with warm greetings to leaders, dignitaries, and the people of Imo and the South East — but his message quickly turned to the heart of Nigeria’s national condition.

“Thank you for your resilience. Thank you for your endurance,” the President began, speaking directly to Nigerians across the country. “Nigeria is getting on the path of progress. The worst is over.”

It was more than political rhetoric — it was an expression of empathy and a moment of emotional connection, acknowledging the sacrifices made by ordinary citizens through a period of hardship and reform.

President Tinubu praised the people for their patience, assuring them that the difficult economic reforms were already beginning to bear fruit.
“The economy will pay you back,” he said, drawing a rousing applause from the crowd.

He then turned to Governor Hope Uzodinma, applauding him for his leadership, vision, and delivery of real, tangible development in Imo State. “You have shown what progressive governance looks like,” the President noted.

Standing for Unity

At the same event, President Tinubu addressed recent claims and allegations of religious persecution — particularly the narrative of genocide against Christians circulated by commentators outside Nigeria. With firmness and gravity, he dismissed these assertions as “a lie from the pit of hell.”

“They lie all over the place that we have religious persecution. Our Muslim brothers and sisters, our Christian brothers and sisters are united. No religious persecution in Nigeria — it is a lie from the pit of hell.”

His message underscored the theme that reverberated throughout the visit: the unity of Nigerians regardless of faith, and the refusal to allow misinformation to divide or weaken the bonds of national family.

Leadership in Full Force

The event brought together Nigeria’s most senior political leaders — a strong signal of unity and national direction. Among them were:

Senate President Godswill Akpabio,Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau I. Jibrin

The traditional institution was represented by Emirs, Kabiyesi’s, Obongs, obis, Oonis’ in full alongside leaders of other eminent personalities.
This included former Governors and former and serving Senators and House of Representatives members. Nearly8 of the current serving Ministers were in Owerri to give full support to Nigeria’s President and the undisputed leader of the APC, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. GCFR.

This display of leadership was more than protocol — it was a gesture of respect to the South East and a collective reaffirmation of the region’s central place in Nigeria’s political and developmental journey.

A Renewed Pact with the South East

In Imo, President Tinubu extended more than a hand — he touched hearts. The projects he commissioned were significant, but the messages he delivered were even more profound: that the South East is not on the margins, and that Nigerians of all faiths are united in this journey.

For decades, the South East has longed for inclusion, dignity, infrastructure, and national acknowledgment. This visit—full of depth, symbolism, and substance—marked a turning of the page. It was a renewal of trust, a reaffirmation of identity, a recommitment to shared prosperity.

President Tinubu did not come as a stranger. He came as a leader, a partner, and a believer in the enormous potential of the South East.

The pact is clear: A South East that is heard, seen, included — and empowered. And the promise is firm: no part of Nigeria will ever be forgotten or divided.

As the President departed Owerri, he left behind roads, buildings, and digital learning centers. But more importantly, he left behind a growing sense of belonging — and the hope that the bridge between the South East and the center is being rebuilt, brick by brick, with trust, truth, unity, and tangible action.

Reform to Recovery

In Owerri at the belly of the Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Conference Center, President Tinubu seized the “Bully Pulpit” in Owerri to deliver inspiring, powerful and fiery messages. “As I stand before you today, I can tell you with confidence that Nigeria has turned the corner…”You will see prosperity. You will have it. Those who are speaking ill of this country should stop. Sixty-five years of independence is not a joke,”.

“I stand before you confident, yet humble, to say that Nigeria is no longer where it was ten years ago. We have crossed that line. We promised change, and today I can confidently tell you that promise is alive. The worst is over,” he reiterated.

President Tinubu was not done yet. He has words for detractors. “There’s no religious persecution in Nigeria. It’s a lie from the pit of hell. I have always believed in good governance…”.

The President in Owerri put a bold foot forward: Nigeria is out of Surgery and it is time to rebuild together. That message Resonates non-stop.

-Dare (CON) is Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Media and Public Communication