The Federal Government has responded to a joint report by two United States House committees alleging persecution of Christians in Nigeria, describing it as an opportunity to strengthen dialogue and cooperation between both nations.
In a statement issued by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the government acknowledged receiving the recommendations submitted to the White House by the United States House Committee on Foreign Affairs and the United States House Committee on Appropriations.
While admitting that parts of the country continue to face serious security threats — including terrorism, banditry and communal violence — the government insisted that such challenges are not the result of any state-backed religious agenda.
“Nigeria does not have, and has never had, a state policy of religious persecution,” the statement emphasised, attributing the violence to complex factors such as terrorism, organised crime and longstanding communal tensions.
The government expressed sympathy to victims of violence across the country, stressing that the loss of lives and destruction of property affect Nigerians irrespective of religion, ethnicity or region.
Reaffirming its constitutional commitment to religious freedom, the government noted that the Constitution guarantees freedom of worship and equal protection under the law for all citizens.
It also outlined measures taken to tackle insecurity, including intensified military and law enforcement operations in affected areas. According to the statement, counter-terrorism campaigns have weakened armed groups, disrupted kidnapping networks and led to the arrest or neutralisation of key suspects.
The government further disclosed that intelligence-sharing and inter-agency coordination have been strengthened to enhance early warning systems and rapid response, particularly in vulnerable rural communities.
As part of renewed security strategies, surveillance and clearance operations have been expanded in forested regions often used as hideouts by criminal groups. Specially trained forest guards have also been deployed to deny bandits and terrorists safe havens and reinforce community-level security.
These efforts, the statement added, are supported by increased investment in modern equipment, mobility assets and technology for the Armed Forces and other security agencies.
Beyond security interventions, the government highlighted ongoing humanitarian assistance for internally displaced persons, initiatives to resettle affected communities, and peacebuilding efforts aimed at promoting long-term coexistence.
Emphasising Nigeria’s strategic partnership with the United States, the government reiterated its readiness for constructive engagement based on mutual respect, shared responsibility and recognition of Nigeria’s constitutional framework and sovereignty.
“The Federal Government will continue to engage international partners through appropriate diplomatic channels while remaining focused on its primary responsibility — the protection of all Nigerians,” the statement concluded.
