The Federal Government has described a recent report by the United States House of Representatives as a foundation for deeper bilateral cooperation between Nigeria and the United States, particularly in the areas of security and development.
The report, submitted to the White House by the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the House Appropriations Committee, raised concerns over security challenges and allegations of religious persecution in parts of Nigeria.
Reacting, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the government had taken note of the concerns but stressed that Nigeria does not operate any policy that targets citizens based on religion.
According to him, “Nigeria does not have, and has never had, a state policy of religious persecution,” noting that the violence being addressed by security agencies is driven by “terrorism, organized criminality, and longstanding communal tensions,” rather than religious bias.
The minister acknowledged that parts of the country continue to face serious security threats, including terrorism, banditry and communal conflicts, and expressed sympathy for victims of violence “regardless of religion, ethnicity or region.”
Idris also reaffirmed that the Nigerian Constitution guarantees freedom of religion and worship for all citizens and that the government remains committed to protecting those rights.
Highlighting ongoing efforts to address insecurity, the Federal Government said it has strengthened coordinated military and law enforcement operations, enhanced intelligence sharing, intensified surveillance in forested areas used by criminal groups, and deployed specially trained forest guards. Investments in equipment, mobility and technology for security agencies have also been increased.
Beyond security operations, the government noted that humanitarian support for internally displaced persons, safe return of affected communities, and community-based peacebuilding initiatives remain ongoing.
The minister emphasised that Nigeria views the US congressional report as an opportunity to deepen engagement, noting that both countries share strategic interests in promoting security, economic growth and regional stability.
He said Nigeria remains open to “constructive dialogue and cooperation” with the United States, provided such engagement respects the country’s constitutional framework and sovereignty.
The Federal Government added that while it will continue to engage international partners through diplomatic channels, its primary responsibility remains the protection of all Nigerians.
