Nigeria and the United States have strengthened their commitment to advancing religious freedom and combating insecurity, promising coordinated efforts to safeguard at-risk populations and ensure accountability for perpetrators of violence.
The commitment was outlined in a joint communiqué released by Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and U.S. Under Secretary of State Allison Hooker following the inaugural session of the U.S.–Nigeria Joint Working Group in Abuja on Thursday.
The Working Group was created to address concerns stemming from Nigeria’s classification as a Country of Particular Concern under U.S. International Religious Freedom legislation, while advancing practical measures to curb violence—especially targeting Christian populations—and guarantee worship freedoms for all citizens.
According to the communiqué, discussions centered on bolstering collaborative frameworks to advance religious liberty and strengthen nationwide security, acknowledging the enduring bilateral relationship built on shared commitments to pluralism, legal governance, and mutual respect for sovereignty.
The American delegation praised Nigeria’s strategic redeployment of security assets, particularly in North Central regions, as part of comprehensive efforts to combat insecurity and protect civilian populations.
Both nations reiterated their “unwavering commitment” to upholding religious freedom principles.
“They concurred on implementing proactive and continuous safeguards for the rights to religious practice, free expression, and peaceful assembly as enshrined in Nigeria’s Constitution,” the statement noted.
The communiqué underscored the critical importance of civilian protection, especially for vulnerable Christian communities, and ensuring perpetrators of violence face justice.
Both governments agreed to deepen counter-terrorism collaboration through enhanced operational partnerships, improved technology access, anti-money laundering initiatives, terrorism financing prevention, and strengthened law enforcement and investigative capabilities.
The U.S. side acknowledged Nigeria’s swift response in bolstering security measures for vulnerable Christian communities and all Nigerians affected by terrorism and criminal violence.
The statement confirmed that subsequent sessions of the bilateral Working Group will convene in the United States on a date to be determined through diplomatic coordination.
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