The Nigeria Evangelical Fellowship has issued a strong demand for the Federal Government to take immediate and decisive measures to end the escalating violence across the nation. This urgent call comes amid growing international concern, including recent threats from former US President Donald Trump regarding the ongoing killings in Nigeria.
Summit Conclusions and Trump's Warning
The Nigeria Evangelical Fellowship (NEF) made this critical appeal during their 60th Anniversary and Strategic Church and Mission Leaders' Summit held in Abuja. The timing of their communiqué carries additional weight following controversial statements attributed to Donald Trump, who reportedly threatened unspecified action against Nigeria if the government fails to stop the killing of Christians.
Rev. James Akinyele, General Secretary of NEF, presented the fellowship's position to journalists after the summit. He expressed deep concern about how the persistent insecurity is destroying lives, livelihoods, and threatening national unity. The international media coverage of Trump's comments has intensified global scrutiny of Nigeria's human rights situation and religious tensions.
Critical Demands for National Security
The evangelical body outlined several urgent actions required from the Federal Government to address the security crisis:
- Prioritize national security by arresting, prosecuting and disarming all terrorist groups, bandits and violent militias
- Support collaborative efforts to combat terrorism and other security challenges
- Protect vulnerable communities and ensure displaced people can return to their ancestral lands
- Promote religious freedom and tolerance among all citizens
- Address socio-economic and environmental challenges affecting various regions
The NEF emphasized that Nigeria has reached a critical point as communities continue suffering from what they described as "religious and ethnic-motivated terrorism, violence, and recurring attacks."
Commitment to National Unity
Reaffirming their dedication to Nigeria's progress and peaceful coexistence, the fellowship pledged to continue advocating for justice, equity, and collaboration among all citizens. "The Nigeria Evangelical Fellowship is committed to unity, progress, prosperity, and speaking with one voice for truth, justice, and peace in Nigeria," stated Rev. Akinyele.
The organization called on government officials, faith leaders, and ordinary citizens to work together to restore peace, heal national divisions, and rebuild trust across communities. They warned that Nigeria's international reputation and national unity face increasing risks if the violence continues unchecked.
As an alliance of Evangelical Churches and Mission Agencies in Nigeria, and a member of both the Association of Evangelicals in Africa and the World Evangelical Alliance, the NEF's statements carry significant weight within religious and international circles.
