Nigeria Refutes Allegations of Christian Persecution, Reaffirms Religious Freedom

Nigeria Refutes Allegations of Christian Persecution, Reaffirms Religious Freedom

The Federal Government of Nigeria (FG) has rejected claims by the United States Congress alleging persecution of Christians in Nigeria, describing the recent report as an opportunity to deepen dialogue, strengthen cooperation, and address shared security challenges.

In a statement issued by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the government said it had received 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 acknowledging the serious security threats affecting parts of Nigeria, including terrorism, banditry, and communal clashes, the FG insisted that these 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 violence to complex factors such as terrorism, organised crime, and long-standing communal tensions rather than government-sanctioned discrimination. The government expressed sympathy to all victims of violence across Nigeria, stressing that lives and property are affected irrespective of religion, ethnicity, or region.

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Reaffirming its constitutional commitment to religious freedom, the FG highlighted that the Nigerian Constitution guarantees freedom of worship and equal protection under the law for all citizens. It stressed that religious discrimination has no place in government policy or action.

The government outlined ongoing measures to address insecurity, including intensified military and law enforcement operations, which have weakened armed groups, disrupted kidnapping networks, and led to the arrest or neutralisation of key suspects. 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 expanded in forested areas often used as hideouts by criminals, and specially trained forest guards have been deployed to deny terrorists and bandits safe havens. These operations are supported by increased investment in modern equipment, mobility assets, and technology for the Armed Forces and security agencies.

Beyond security interventions, the FG highlighted humanitarian assistance for internally displaced persons (IDPs), initiatives to resettle affected communities, and community-based peacebuilding efforts aimed at promoting long-term coexistence among diverse groups.

Emphasising Nigeria’s strategic partnership with the United States, the FG 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.

The U.S. report, which listed recommendations to address alleged persecution of Christians, called for measures such as enhanced security, accountability, and oversight of aid programs, including possible sanctions. While firmly rejecting the report’s premise, the FG positioned it as a catalyst for stronger cooperation on security, humanitarian, and development initiatives.

Nigeria Refutes Allegations of Christian Persecution, Reaffirms Religious Freedom