George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), has issued a public warning that recent remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump concerning Nigeria’s security situation risk inadvertently encouraging violent groups to exploit international narratives for fresh attacks.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, Akume addressed Trump’s designation of Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” and his accusation that the federal government was ignoring attacks on Christians.
Rejecting the ‘Genocide Against Christians’ Narrative
Akume strongly stressed that the Nigerian conflict is complex, and he refuted the claim that it constitutes genocide against a single religious group.
“No credible international institution has designated the crisis as genocide against Christians. Boko Haram and ISWAP attack both churches and mosques, killing Muslims and Christians alike,” he said, adding that bandits target all communities regardless of religion.
He explained that insurgency in the country has evolved along two main lines:
- Ideological Extremism: In the north-east, linked to global terrorist networks like ISWAP.
- Economically Driven Crises: In the north-west, driven by illegal mining, competition over land and water, cattle rustling, extortion, and kidnapping-for-ransom.
Unintended Consequences of Trump’s Remarks
The SGF warned that the U.S. pronouncements are having a dangerous, unintended effect on the ground:
“Recent pronouncements from the United States have inadvertently emboldened opportunistic violent groups seeking to exploit international narratives and make bold statements by attacking soft targets,” Akume said, noting that insurgent structures had been significantly weakened before these comments.
Akume traced part of Nigeria’s insecurity to weapons proliferation across the Sahel following the collapse of Libya and instability in Egypt after the 2011 uprisings. He further noted that Nigeria lacked a proper legal framework to combat terrorism until the Terrorism Prevention Act was enacted after the Henry Okah-led Independence Day bombing.
Next Steps and Reassurance
Akume concluded by reassuring the public that Nigeria’s armed forces remain “highly capable, experienced and professional.” He emphasized that the country does not need foreign troops but would greatly benefit from targeted support in intelligence, technology, and equipment.
Outlining the way forward, he called for strengthening nationwide security operations, expanding intelligence-sharing with the US and other allies, cracking down on illegal mining, and enhancing border security.
“Now is the time to speak with one strong and united voice to confront a common enemy — terrorists, bandits, and extremist insurgents — and eradicate them from our national borders,” Akume said.
Source: Punch Online
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