SGF Akume says Trump’s remarks sparked fresh attacks by violent groups
By Sabiu Abdullahi
Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, has said that recent statements made by former United States President Donald Trump have revived the confidence of violent groups that are seeking to exploit global narratives for renewed attacks.
Akume issued the warning in a statement released on Wednesday. He addressed the evolving pattern of violent extremism, banditry and the broader security issues confronting Nigeria.
Trump had declared Nigeria a “country of particular concern’’ on October 31 over allegations of a Christian genocide.
He cautioned that American forces could be deployed to Nigeria if the alleged killings of Christians continued.
He also said he had directed the U.S. Department of War to prepare for “possible action” should the situation deteriorate.
Trump further threatened to suspend all American assistance to Nigeria if President Bola Tinubu’s government failed to stop the purported persecution.
Akume said insurgent networks had been weakened before those remarks were made. He noted that some groups are now attempting to use the international attention as an advantage.
His statement read in part, “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.
“Before these statements, insurgency structures had been significantly degraded and reduced to isolated banditry. This resurgence underscores the vital need for collaboration—not public labeling—between Nigeria and the United States.”
He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s stance that Nigeria does not need foreign troops. According to him, the Nigerian Armed Forces have reclaimed territories and dismantled Boko Haram and ISWAP command structures.
He stressed that the country requires specific support in the areas of intelligence, technology and equipment rather than foreign boots on the ground.
He said, “The Nigerian Armed Forces are highly capable, experienced and professional. They have reclaimed vast territories, degraded Boko Haram/ISWAP leadership structures, and conducted successful multi-theatre operations.
“Nigeria does not require foreign troops. What is needed is targeted support from partners, especially the United States, in the areas of intelligence cooperation, technology and military equipment support for advanced engagement against the insurgents.”
Akume also rejected claims that the conflict in Nigeria amounts to a “Christian genocide”. He said available evidence shows that insurgents and criminal elements attack both churches and mosques and that victims include Muslims and Christians.
He added that Nigeria remains a secular nation and that government appointments represent the country’s religious and ethnic diversity.
He stated, “Nigeria rejects any characterisation of the conflict as a genocide against Christians or any group. Verified evidence shows that insurgents and criminal networks attack both churches and mosques, killing Muslims and Christians alike. The Government remains committed to protecting all citizens and strengthening cooperation with international partners—especially the United States—to dismantle extremist and criminal networks.
“Nigeria is a secular state as guaranteed by various provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended. No state religion is adopted as a national religion and no citizen of Nigeria is above the Nigerian constitution.
“The appointment made by the present administration reflects the diversities of our nation and both Christians and Muslims and members of the Federal Executive Council holding key positions in equal proportion, including the Nigerian security council, the body that deals with all security challenges in Nigeria.”
