SGF Akume Says Trump’s Remarks Risk Encouraging Violent Groups in Nigeria

George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), has warned that recent remarks by US President Donald Trump on Nigeria’s security situation may encourage violent groups to exploit international narratives and carry out fresh attacks.

Trump had recently labeled Nigeria a “country of particular concern” and accused the federal government of ignoring attacks on Christians.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, Akume provided an update on the evolution of violent extremism, Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgency, and banditry in northern Nigeria.

He explained that insecurity in the country has two main dimensions: ideological extremism in the north-east tied to global terrorist networks, and economically motivated violence in the north-west, driven by illegal mining, cattle rustling, extortion, and kidnapping-for-ransom.

Akume emphasized that both Muslims and Christians have been affected, and no credible international body has classified the conflict as genocide against Christians.

“No credible international institution has designated the crisis as genocide against Christians. Boko Haram and ISWAP attack both churches and mosques, killing Muslims and Christians alike,” he said, adding that bandits target communities without regard to religion.

He linked part of Nigeria’s insecurity to weapons proliferation in the Sahel following the collapse of Libya and instability in Egypt after the 2011 uprisings. He noted that Nigeria lacked an effective legal framework to tackle terrorism until the Terrorism Prevention Act was enacted after the Independence Day bombing by Henry Okah.

Akume also traced the history of Boko Haram, from its founding in 2002 under Mohammed Yusuf, its rise under Abubakar Shekau, to its transformation into ISWAP after pledging allegiance to ISIS in 2015. He said north-west banditry is largely fueled by competition for land and water, illegal mining, cattle rustling, and the commercialization of kidnapping.

Citing recent incidents, he mentioned the June 2025 attack in Yelewata, Guma LGA of Benue, which left at least 100 people dead and prompted federal intervention.

Assuring Nigerians, Akume said the armed forces remain “highly capable, experienced, and professional,” noting that while the country does not need foreign troops, targeted support in intelligence, technology, and equipment would be beneficial.

“Recent pronouncements from the United States have inadvertently emboldened opportunistic violent groups seeking to exploit international narratives and attack soft targets,” he said, stressing that insurgent structures had been significantly weakened prior to these comments.

He reiterated that the government rejects any claim that the conflict constitutes genocide and remains committed to protecting all citizens regardless of religion. Akume highlighted Nigeria’s secular nature, reflected in the diversity of federal appointments, including within the security council.

Looking ahead, he outlined plans to strengthen nationwide security operations, expand intelligence-sharing with the US and other allies, tackle illegal mining, and reinforce border security.

“Now is the time to speak with one strong and united voice to confront a common enemy — terrorists, bandits, and extremist insurgents — and remove them from our national borders,” he added.