posted 12th April 2025
Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Religious Freedom Amid US Embassy Concerns
Abuja, Nigeria – 11 April 2025
The Nigerian government has strongly reaffirmed its commitment to upholding religious freedom and freedom of expression, responding to concerns raised by the United States Embassy in Abuja over a recent social media publication. The publication, attributed to Bishop Wilfred Anagbe and other religious leaders, highlighted alleged persecution of Christians in Nigeria, prompting a diplomatic exchange.
In a press release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa addressed what Nigeria described as a misrepresentation by the United States Congressional Hearing on Religious Persecution in Nigeria. The statement emphasised that Nigeria views religious freedom as a constitutional cornerstone and dismissed the depiction of the situation as a simplistic narrative of religious conflict.
“The assertion that the Nigerian government has ‘allowed the violence to escalate unchecked’ is both inaccurate and unfair,” the ministry stated. It outlined ongoing efforts to address security challenges, including deploying forces to protect communities, engaging in peace-building initiatives, enhancing intelligence operations, and implementing policies to tackle root causes such as land use disputes and economic issues.
The ministry expressed concern over the US Embassy’s remarks, particularly the suggestion of “Islamist extermination” of Christians, which it labelled as an incorrect portrayal that risks deepening divisions. Nigeria clarified that it faces multifaceted security threats, including banditry, terrorism, and organised crime, affecting citizens of all faiths and ethnicities.
While acknowledging the concerns raised, Nigeria urged the US and international partners to avoid narratives that oversimplify the situation. “The current administration values its partnership with the United States and other international allies in addressing security concerns,” the statement noted, calling for accurate reporting and constructive dialogue to promote peace.
The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to protecting all citizens, regardless of faith, and fostering national and international cooperation to combat insecurity. It also pledged to investigate any reported threats against religious leaders and take appropriate action.
