President Bola Tinubu remains calm, unshaken and focused amid recent allegations by United States President, Donald Trump suggesting religious persecution and threat of military intervention in the country, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has said.

He stated this while briefing State House Correspondents after his routine briefing of the President, rejecting claims that the government shows bias or intolerance toward any religious group.

Idris revealed that the US issue was discussed in detail and that the Nigerian government is taking deliberate steps to correct the narrative.

He framed Nigeria as a diverse, faith-inclusive nation where the constitution guarantees freedom of worship for all, and where the presidency actively works to uphold that principle.

He asserted that the administration is engaged in proactive dialogue to quell misperceptions and to reinforce national unity. “It is a routine that we always have with Mr President and as the Minister of Information I need to consult with Mr President from time to time and this is exactly what we have done,” he began, before addressing the broader context of religious harmony. He added that the President is calm and focused on ensuring that the international community understands Nigeria’s actions and commitments.

“Mr. President is calm. He’s looking at the whole situation and exploring ways to ensure the international community understands what Nigeria has been doing,” he said.

Responding to external concerns, Idris stressed that the government has not singled out any faith as a target. He pointed to recent security and governance measures as evidence of a balanced approach designed to protect all Nigerians, regardless of religious affiliation. “What has happened is that we have these extremists that are driving this narrative and their desired outcome is to see that this country is divided,” he cautioned, highlighting that the country’s leadership rejects division and rhetoric that threaten unity.

The minister drew a clear line between extremism and legitimate religious practice, stating, “Nigeria has Muslims and Christians and even those who do not believe in any of these religions and our constitution guarantees everyone should practice their faith without hindrance and Mr President is going to respect that to the letter.”

He underscored that the government’s aim is to rid the country of criminal elements while preserving religious liberty and social cohesion.

Idris attributed misinformation to a subset of actors spreading a divisive narrative and called on Nigerians to focus on shared ideals. He urged citizens to reflect on nationhood and unity, describing this moment as an opportunity to strengthen rather than fracture the social fabric. “This is not the time for division, this is not the time for rhetoric,” he said, reiterating the government’s commitment to inclusive governance.

On policy actions, Idris reiterated a multi-layered engagement strategy that includes continuous dialogue with religious leadership and ongoing international outreach. He noted, “Discussions with the leadership of religious groups is an ongoing effort, Mr President has been meeting with them and he will continue to do so,” framing these conversations as essential to maintaining trust and collaboration across communities.

The minister also stressed that Nigeria engages with the international community beyond the United States, including regional and continental bodies, to explain Nigeria’s approach to security and governance. He described these efforts as essential to counter mischaracterisations and to demonstrate Nigeria’s dedication to rule-of-law and constitutional rights for all.

He concluded by reinforcing the President’s steady approach to governance. Idris stated that Mr President is calm and taking the matter seriously, with all relevant institutions bearing responsibility and depth in their analysis. He expressed confidence that the nation would emerge stronger from current challenges and reiterated the administration’s commitment to a Nigeria where every citizen can live without fear of discrimination or coercion. (Daily Sun)