The Nigerian Presidency has issued a robust defence of the nation's counter-terrorism efforts, presenting data showing significant security improvements. This update comes amidst a fresh diplomatic dispute with the United States, following allegations of genocide made by President Donald Trump.
Security Gains and Diplomatic Tensions
On Sunday, the Presidency released a detailed update via its verified X handle, outlining major strides in the fight against insurgency. This public statement was a direct response to the United States redesignating Nigeria as a "Country of Particular Concern (CPC)". President Trump accused Nigeria of genocide against Christians and hinted at potential sanctions and military action.
The Nigerian government has consistently rejected these claims, maintaining that the security crisis is a complex issue involving terrorism, banditry, and communal violence, not religious persecution. Officials stress that victims hail from all faiths and regions across the country.
Quantifiable Progress in the Fight Against Terror
Reaffirming President Bola Tinubu's stance that "the security of Nigeria is non-negotiable," the update highlighted concrete achievements attributed to improved inter-agency coordination since 2023.
The report revealed that security agencies have "vigorously pursued, arrested, eliminated or successfully convicted" extremists linked to some of Nigeria's deadliest attacks. Key operational outcomes include:
- More than 124 terrorists and insurgents convicted by Nigerian courts since 2024.
- Several high-profile suspects currently on trial, including leaders of Ansaru and those implicated in the 2022 Owo church massacre and the Yelwata reprisal killings in Benue.
- Over 13,000 terrorists neutralised in the past year.
- More than 124,000 fighters and their dependents surrendering to authorities.
The Presidency also reported a dramatic 81% decline in terror-related deaths as of 2025 compared to 2015 levels. This success is credited to intensified counter-insurgency campaigns and closer engagement with affected communities.
Humanitarian Recovery and a Call for Global Support
Beyond security operations, the government highlighted significant humanitarian progress. The update stated that 2.1 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) have returned to their homes, with reconstruction ongoing in many liberated areas.
To support long-term stability, the Federal Government has launched a Resettlement Scheme for Persons Impacted by Conflict. This initiative aims to aid rehabilitation, rebuild devastated communities, and support the reintegration of affected populations.
Despite these gains, the government reiterated its call for deeper international cooperation, insisting that global support remains critical to dismantling cross-border terror networks. The Presidency appealed to partners like the U.S. for continued collaboration to finally end the security menace plaguing the region.
