ROME: The Senior Adviser to U.S. President Donald Trump on Arab and African Affairs, Mr. Massad Boulos, has said that Boko Haram’s attacks in Nigeria have claimed more Christian lives than Muslim ones, describing the group’s activities as a tragedy that has deeply affected communities across the country.
Speaking with journalists in Rome after meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Boulos condemned the killings and destruction caused by the terror group, stressing that the violence has devastated innocent Nigerians and disrupted national peace.
Those who know the terrain well understand that terrorism has no justification whatsoever, he said.
Boko Haram’s actions have taken more Christian lives than Muslim lives, and every loss of life is a painful reminder of the need to end extremism in all its forms.
Boulos noted that Boko Haram’s campaign of terror, which began in 2009, has targeted churches, schools, and entire communities in the North-East, forcing millions from their homes and causing widespread suffering.
He added that the United States acknowledges Nigeria’s recent efforts under President Tinubu to strengthen counterterrorism measures and improve security coordination in affected areas.
The Nigerian government and President Tinubu’s administration have increased resources to confront the insurgency, and we’ve seen signs of progress. We appreciate those measures and look forward to continued improvements, he said.
Boulos reaffirmed America’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s efforts to defeat terrorism and rebuild conflict-ravaged communities, noting that the country has long stood as a model of peaceful coexistence between Christians and Muslims.
