The Federal Government of Nigeria on Wednesday responded to a joint report on Christian persecution in the country submitted to the White House by the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee and the House Appropriations Committee.
In its statement, the government denied any state policy of religious persecution, emphasizing that ongoing violence in parts of Nigeria—including terrorism, banditry, and communal conflicts—is driven by complex security threats, not government bias. Nigeria reiterated its constitutional guarantee of freedom of religion and worship for all citizens, while highlighting intensified military and law enforcement operations, community-based peacebuilding initiatives, and humanitarian efforts to protect affected communities.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to constructive dialogue and cooperation with international partners, particularly the United States, while maintaining its primary focus on safeguarding the lives and property of all Nigerians.
The statement further readd@It is important to state clearly that Nigeria does not have, and has never had, a state policy of religious persecution. 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 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria guarantees freedom of religion and freedom of worship for all citizens. The Federal Government remains firmly committed to upholding these constitutional protections and to ensuring equal protection under the law.
“In response to evolving security threats, the Federal Government has significantly strengthened coordinated military and law enforcement operations across affected regions. Ongoing counter-terrorism offensives have degraded the capacity of armed groups, disrupted kidnapping networks, and led to the arrest and neutralisation of key criminal elements. Intelligence sharing and inter-agency collaboration have been enhanced to improve early warning and rapid response mechanisms, particularly in vulnerable rural communities.
“In addition, the government has intensified surveillance and clearance operations in forested areas long exploited by criminal groups. The establishment and deployment of specially trained forest guards toaim at deny terrorists and bandits safe havens, improve territorial control, and strengthen community-level security presence. These efforts are complemented by increased investment in equipment, mobility assets, and technology to support the Armed Forces and other security agencies.
“Efforts are also ongoing to improve humanitarian response for internally displaced persons, facilitate the safe return of affected communities, and promote community-based peacebuilding initiatives that foster sustainable coexistence.
“Nigeria values its longstanding and strategic partnership with the United States. Our two countries share common interests in promoting security, economic development, and regional stability. We remain open to constructive dialogue and cooperation rooted in 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 duty, the protection of all Nigerians.
