NEWSIE EVENTS MEDIA
The Bola Tinubu administration has warned that attacks carried out under the guise of religion will be regarded as a direct assault on Nigeria’s sovereignty, as concerns grow over religiously motivated killings and rising insecurity nationwide.
The declaration was made by the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, at the close of the first meeting of the U.S.–Nigeria Joint Working Group on Religious Freedom and Security, which took place in Abuja.
Ribadu emphasized that Nigeria’s diverse religious makeup requires equal protection for all citizens, stressing that the government will not allow religion to be used as a tool for violence.
“Nigeria is a deeply plural society, and the protection of all citizens—Christians, Muslims, and those of other beliefs—is non-negotiable,” Ribadu said.
“Violence framed along religious lines is treated as an attack on the Nigerian state itself.”
He explained that the government’s strategy to tackle insecurity extends beyond military action, combining law enforcement, humanitarian considerations and effective communication to build public trust and unity.
“Our response integrates security operations, rule of law, humanitarian safeguards, and strategic communication, ensuring that operational successes translate into public confidence and strengthened social cohesion,” he added.
The meeting followed the recent designation of Nigeria by the United States as a Country of Particular Concern under the International Religious Freedom Act, a decision that has renewed global focus on attacks against vulnerable groups, especially Christian communities.
The Joint Working Group aims to strengthen cooperation between both countries to curb religious violence, enhance accountability and improve civilian protection.Nigeria’s delegation was led by Ribadu and included representatives from key ministries and security agencies, while the U.S. team was headed by Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, Allison Hooker, alongside officials from several federal agencies.
Hooker acknowledged Nigeria’s diversity and complex security environment, stressing that long term collaboration is essential to safeguarding civilians and protecting religious freedom. She noted that the Working Group is designed to move discussions beyond concern to concrete actions that deter violence, improve investigations and ensure justice.
Ribadu maintained that Nigeria’s collaboration with international partners is already yielding results, pointing to better coordination among security agencies and increased pressure on terrorist and criminal networks.
“We want Nigerians to know that this partnership is working, that it is delivering tangible gains, and that our collective efforts will continue to yield positive gains,” he said.
Security experts believe the government’s stance reflects growing alarm over how extremist groups exploit religious identity to fuel division and weaken national unity.
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