Nigeria's Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), has issued a firm response to allegations made by United States President Donald Trump regarding the security situation in the West African nation. The minister's comments came during an interview with the BBC, published on January 17, 2026.
Musa's Rebuttal to International Claims
Addressing President Trump's specific claim of a 'Christian genocide' occurring in Nigeria, Minister Musa emphasised a fundamental point. "No one can love Nigeria more than Nigerians," he stated, redirecting the focus to the universal impact of the violence. He clarified that the insecurity plaguing the country does not discriminate along religious lines. "Nigerians are being killed... That is the bottom line. Both Muslims and Christians are victims," Musa explained, underscoring the collective suffering of all citizens.
Call for Constructive International Partnership
The minister, who serves under President Bola Tinubu, highlighted Nigeria's ongoing efforts to curb the violence. He called on the international community to understand and support these initiatives. Musa affirmed the longstanding alliance between Nigeria and the United States, expressing a desire to maintain the relationship. However, he added a crucial caveat, assuring citizens that any cooperation would be sustained "in such a way that our sovereignty will not be compromised." His message was clear: while collaboration is welcome, it must respect Nigeria's autonomy.
Mixed Reactions from the Nigerian Public
Following the minister's interview, Nigerians took to social media and other platforms to voice their opinions, revealing a spectrum of perspectives on the complex security issue.
Some commentators expressed deep skepticism. A user named Spontaneous argued, "A political appointee, be he Christian or Muslim, would never admit to a Christian genocide, to please his Aso Rock masters. We are not fooled." Another, Chukwuebuka, lamented the perceived imbalance in the conflict, pointing to displacement in the Middle Belt region.
Conversely, other citizens praised Musa's approach. Hassan Abdulafiz commended the call for unity, stating, "Conversations around insecurity deserve seriousness, honesty, and solutions that unite rather than divide us... Framing insecurity through facts, empathy, and accountability is the only way we can move forward together." Mustapha Muhammad Kote offered prayers for the minister's success in implementing security reforms.
General Christopher Musa, the immediate past Chief of Defence Staff, officially resumed office as Minister of Defence on Friday, December 5, a day after being sworn in by President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on December 4.
