By Our Correspondent
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has vowed that his administration will crush terrorism in Nigeria, saying that no external pressure or political threat will stop his government from securing the country.
His strong statement comes amid growing diplomatic tension after US President Donald Trump recently placed Nigeria on the list of Countries of Particular Concern over alleged religious persecution and warned of possible US military action if the situation does not improve.
Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday, Tinubu said his government is fully committed to ending terrorism and violent crime across the country. He promised that Nigeria will not bow to fear or foreign influence in its effort to restore peace and stability.
Tinubu said the government would defeat terrorism by all possible means and that no threat or intimidation would weaken the country’s resolve. He insisted that Nigeria will succeed in its efforts to protect its citizens and bring lasting peace to affected areas.
The president noted that insecurity has slowed down Nigeria’s growth and stability but said his administration has introduced new steps to strengthen the armed forces and improve cooperation with neighbouring countries. He called for unity among Nigerians to confront those who seek to divide the nation.
He said his Renewed Hope Agenda focuses on national security, peace, and development, and that the government is working to protect lives and rebuild communities damaged by violence.
Trump’s recent remarks have created tension between Washington and Abuja. The US leader accused Nigeria of failing to protect its Christian population and warned of serious consequences if the government does not stop religiously motivated attacks.
In response, Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejected the US claims as one-sided and inaccurate, stating that violence in the country affects both Christians and Muslims. The government also pointed out that the Nigerian constitution guarantees full freedom of religion and belief.
Tinubu said Nigeria is an independent nation and will continue to engage with other countries respectfully, but that its main responsibility is to protect its people and uphold national dignity.
Security analysts say Tinubu’s firm stance shows a growing confidence in Nigeria’s determination to handle its own security challenges. Many view his statement as both a call to unity at home and a message to the international community that Nigeria will not be intimidated.
Dr Abdulrahman Shuaib, a defence analyst based in Abuja, said the president’s message reflects a clear plan to strengthen national security and respond more effectively to terrorist threats.
Nigeria continues to face serious security challenges, including Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents in the northeast, bandit groups in the northwest, and separatist tensions in the southeast. These crises have displaced millions of people and caused thousands of deaths over the past decade.
Although recent security operations have weakened some insurgent groups, attacks still occur, mostly targeting rural communities and security forces. The Trump administration’s decision to place Nigeria on the list of Countries of Particular Concern could create new diplomatic problems affecting aid, trade, and military cooperation between both nations.
Analysts expect stronger security operations in northern Nigeria in the coming months, along with continued talks between Nigeria and its regional and international partners.
Tinubu’s government has made it clear that it will work with other countries only on terms that protect Nigeria’s independence and national interest.
The president said Nigeria will not allow terrorism to define its future and that the nation will stand united and victorious.
