Nigeria's First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has strongly rejected the United States' recent designation of Nigeria as a 'Country of Particular Concern' over alleged religious persecution. The response came during a significant address to Christian youth leaders in the nation's capital.
First Lady's Firm Rejection of US Claims
Speaking at the National Christian Youth Leaders Conference on Monday, November 10, 2025, in Abuja, Mrs. Tinubu delivered a powerful message emphasizing Nigeria's unity and rejecting foreign allegations of religious intolerance. Represented by Mrs. Salamatu Gbajabiamila, wife of the Chief of Staff to the President, the First Lady addressed the Youth Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN).
"The truth liberates us, heals wounds, and binds us in fellowship," Mrs. Tinubu declared. "Let us choose harmony over division and stand against every form of religious bigotry or ethnic intolerance."
The First Lady reaffirmed that President Bola Tinubu's administration remains fully committed to protecting the lives and property of all Nigerian citizens, regardless of religious affiliation. She emphasized the Church's crucial role as an essential partner in building a stronger, more united nation.
Christian Youth Leaders Echo Concerns
Ambassador Belusochukwu Enwere, National Chairman of YOWICAN, joined the First Lady in criticizing the U.S. designation, describing it as misleading and unfair to Nigeria's complex social fabric. He expressed deep concern about the recurring violence in several states while emphasizing that the pain of insecurity affects all religious communities.
"This is a moment that demands not defensiveness, but dialogue; not division, but discernment," Enwere stated. "Let the truth set us free from narratives that portray us as perpetrators rather than protectors."
The YOWICAN leader made an impassioned plea: "Stop the killings of Christians. Stop the killings of Muslims. Stop the killings of all Nigerians. Every life matters." He called on government and security agencies to enhance intelligence gathering, strengthen interfaith partnerships, and prioritize national security.
Call for Unity and Educational Advancement
Mrs. Tinubu specifically addressed Nigeria's Christian youth, urging them to embrace education and integrity as fundamental tools for national development. She described truth as the essential foundation for progress and unity in a diverse nation.
"To our Christian youth, I urge you to embrace the truth as your compass," she advised. "A house divided against itself cannot stand. Champion education as the great equalizer and equip young minds to seek the truth always."
The three-day conference brought together Christian youth leaders, clergy members, government officials, and media practitioners, focusing on promoting religious harmony and interfaith collaboration for peace and national stability.
The event occurred against the backdrop of similar rejections from other religious bodies, including the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), which had previously condemned the U.S. designation as politically driven and misleading.
