The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed comments by U.S. President Donald Trump labeling Nigeria as a “country of concern” over alleged persecution of Christians.
Speaking on 3 November, 2025 during an interview on Channels TV, Wike said he found the warnings he received from friends and associates before the program amusing.
“Before I came in here, many people texted me, ‘Oh, please don’t speak about Trump,’ and I just laughed.
“I’m Nigerian, I’m a Christian, my father is a pastor, and my family are all Christians. This is politics taken too far.” Wike said.
Wike maintained that Nigeria should not be portrayed internationally as a nation that persecutes Christians, noting that such claims misrepresent the country’s diverse and tolerant religious landscape.
He emphasized the need for world leaders to be cautious in their public remarks about sensitive issues, especially those capable of inciting division or misunderstanding among Nigerians.
