The Federal Government has described a recent joint report by two United States congressional committees on security developments in Nigeria as a potential catalyst for broader bilateral cooperation.
In a statement, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the government had taken note of the recommendations contained in the report on Christian persecution in Nigeria submitted to the White House by the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the House Appropriations Committee.
The government acknowledged that parts of the country continue to face serious security challenges, including terrorism, banditry and communal conflicts, which have resulted in loss of lives and destruction of property. It expressed sympathy to victims and their families, irrespective of faith, ethnicity or region.
The statement stressed that Nigeria does not have, and has never had, a state policy of religious persecution. It noted that the violence being addressed by security agencies stems from complex threats such as terrorism, organised criminality and longstanding communal tensions, rather than government policy or religious bias.
Citing constitutional provisions, the government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting freedom of religion and worship, as guaranteed under the Constitution, and to ensuring equal protection under the law for all citizens.
According to the minister, the Federal Government has intensified coordinated military and law enforcement operations in affected regions, leading to the disruption of kidnapping networks and the arrest or neutralisation of key criminal elements. Intelligence-sharing mechanisms and inter-agency collaboration have also been strengthened to enhance early warning and rapid response, particularly in vulnerable rural communities.
He added that surveillance and clearance operations in forested areas have been expanded, alongside the deployment of specially trained forest guards aimed at denying criminal groups safe havens and strengthening territorial control. Investments in equipment, mobility assets and technology to support the Armed Forces and other security agencies have also been increased.
Beyond security measures, the government said efforts were ongoing to improve humanitarian support for internally displaced persons, facilitate the safe return of affected communities and promote community-based peacebuilding initiatives.
The statement reaffirmed Nigeria’s longstanding and strategic partnership with the United States, noting shared interests in security, economic development and regional stability. It added that the government remains open to constructive dialogue and cooperation rooted in mutual respect, shared responsibility and recognition of Nigeria’s constitutional framework and sovereignty.
The Federal Government, it said, will continue to engage international partners through appropriate diplomatic channels while remaining focused on its primary responsibility of protecting all Nigerians.
