The Federal Government has raised concerns over a growing plot by extremist groups to sow division between Christians and Muslims across Nigeria. Authorities say intelligence reports have revealed coordinated attempts to exploit ethnic and religious differences in order to destabilize communities and undermine national unity.
Speaking through the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the government emphasized that such divisive schemes are designed to provoke hatred, mistrust, and violence among citizens who have coexisted peacefully for decades. Idris urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and avoid spreading or believing messages intended to ignite religious conflict.
“The government has become aware of ongoing efforts by certain extremist elements—both within and outside the country—to create unnecessary tension between followers of the two dominant religions,” the minister said. “We strongly condemn these attempts and urge Nigerians to recognize that peace, tolerance, and respect for one another are the bedrock of our national stability.”
He reiterated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to safeguarding the country’s unity, noting that the administration will continue to work with security agencies and religious leaders to counter the spread of extremist ideologies. The minister assured that proactive steps are being taken to monitor and neutralize groups attempting to use religion as a weapon of division.
According to the Information Ministry, the Federal Government is also intensifying its collaboration with faith-based organizations, traditional rulers, and community leaders to promote interfaith dialogue. These partnerships are expected to strengthen the resilience of local communities against manipulation and hate campaigns.
Idris cautioned citizens to verify the authenticity of information before sharing it on social media, noting that misinformation has become one of the key tools extremists use to amplify their agendas. He called on both Christian and Muslim leaders to continue preaching messages of peace and unity from their pulpits.
“We must not allow any external or internal group to destroy the harmony that defines our national character,” he said. “No religion supports violence, hatred, or intolerance. Nigeria’s diversity is a source of strength, not division.”
Security experts have also warned that extremists often exploit economic hardship and political grievances to recruit followers and fuel mistrust. The government, they said, must continue addressing underlying issues such as poverty and unemployment, which make communities vulnerable to manipulation.
Meanwhile, several religious associations, including the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), have pledged to work closely with the government to prevent any attempt to ignite religious conflict. Both groups reaffirmed their commitment to national peace and coexistence.
The Federal Government urged Nigerians to report suspicious activities or inflammatory content to the appropriate authorities, assuring that the unity and peace of the country remain non-negotiable.
