FG Rejects Claims of Religious Persecution in Nigeria
The Federal Government of Nigeria has rejected claims of religious persecution, insisting that insecurity in parts of the country is driven by terrorism and criminality rather than state policy or religious bias.
Minister of Information Mohammed Idris made the clarification on Monday while responding to a report submitted to President Donald Trump of the United States by members of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the House Appropriations Committee of the U.S. Congress.
The report followed investigations into allegations of persecution of Christians and extremist violence.
The U.S. congressional report, which recommended further scrutiny of security conditions in Nigeria, was part of a broader inquiry ordered after President Trump redesignated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern under U.S. religious freedom monitoring policies. Congressman Riley Moore confirmed the submission of the report and described the engagements with the White House as efforts to deepen understanding of insecurity and challenges facing communities affected by violence.
In response, Idris stated that Nigeria does not and has never maintained a policy of religious persecution. He acknowledged the security challenges facing the country, including terrorism, banditry and communal conflicts, but emphasised that these threats are unrelated to government policy or religious discrimination.
He reiterated that the Nigerian Constitution guarantees freedom of religion and worship and that the government remains committed to protecting these rights. The minister also noted Nigeria’s willingness to engage international partners through diplomatic channels while prioritising the protection of all citizens.
The U.S. Congress and Nigerian authorities have maintained differing perspectives on the extent and causes of religiously motivated violence in the country. Nigeria insists the insecurity stems from complex criminal and communal factors, while U.S. officials have called for continued assessment of conditions affecting religious communities.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its strategic partnership with the United States, stressing shared interests in security and development and expressing readiness for constructive dialogue.
