FG: US House Committees’ Report on Nigeria catalyst for broader cooperation

The Federal Government of Nigeria has taken note of recent statements and recommendations emerging from the engagements within the United States Congress.

A joint report on Christian persecution in Nigeria submitted to the White House on Monday by the House Foreign Affairs Committee and House Appropriations Committee, concerning security developments in Nigeria.

According to the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, in a statement disclosed that Nigeria acknowledges that parts of the country continue to face serious security challenges, including terrorism, banditry, and communal conflicts that have tragically affected many communities.

He added that the Federal Government remains deeply concerned about the loss of lives and destruction of property resulting from these criminal acts, and extended their sympathies to all victims and their families, regardless of faith, ethnicity, or region.

He stated clearly that Nigeria does not have, and has never had, a state policy of religious persecution and violence being confronted by the security agencies is not driven by govt policy or religious bias, but by complex security threats, which includes 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 and the Federal Government remains firmly committed to upholding these constitutional protections to ensure equal protection under the law.
In response to evolving security threats, Idris stated that the Federal Govt 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”, he added.
The Minister said 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.

He reiterated that the Federal Govt will continue to engage international partners through appropriate diplomatic channels while remaining focused on its primary duty, the protection of all Nigerians.