The Federal Government of Nigeria has firmly denied allegations of state-sponsored religious persecution in the country, describing a recent joint report by two US House committees as a potential catalyst for deeper bilateral cooperation on security matters.
In a statement issued by the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, fnipr, the government acknowledged the report submitted to the White House on Monday by the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the House Appropriations Committee.
The US report, following investigations including hearings, expert testimonies, and congressional visits to Nigeria, highlighted ongoing violence against Christian communities, labeling the country as one of the deadliest places for Christians amid attacks by terrorist groups, bandits, and militias.
The Nigerian government emphasized that while serious security challenges persist—including terrorism, banditry, and communal conflicts—these are not driven by any official policy of religious bias.
“Nigeria does not have, and has never had, a state policy of religious persecution,” the statement read. “The violence being confronted by our security agencies is not driven by government policy or religious bias, but by complex security threats, including terrorism, organised criminality, and longstanding communal tensions.”
The statement extended sympathies to all victims of violence, irrespective of faith, ethnicity, or region, and reaffirmed Nigeria’s constitutional guarantees of freedom of religion and equal protection under the law.
Highlighting ongoing efforts, the government pointed to intensified military and law enforcement operations that have degraded terrorist capabilities, disrupted kidnapping networks, and neutralized key criminals. It also noted enhanced intelligence sharing, clearance operations in forested areas, deployment of specialized forest guards, and investments in equipment and technology for security forces.
Additionally, initiatives to support internally displaced persons, enable safe community returns, and promote peacebuilding were cited as part of broader humanitarian and reconciliation measures.
The Federal Government expressed appreciation for its strategic partnership with the United States, underscoring shared interests in security, economic development, and regional stability. “Nigeria values its longstanding and strategic partnership with the United States,” the statement said. “We remain open to constructive dialogue and cooperation rooted in mutual respect, shared responsibility, and recognition of Nigeria’s constitutional framework and sovereignty.”
The government concluded by committing to continued engagement with international partners through diplomatic channels while prioritizing the protection of all Nigerians.
The US report, delivered amid President Trump’s redesignation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) over religious freedom concerns, included recommendations such as a bilateral security pact, conditional US funding, sanctions on perpetrators, and actions to counter extremist networks.
This response from Abuja comes as both nations navigate ways to address Nigeria’s multifaceted security issues collaboratively.
