National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu has said the federal government considers religious violence an attack on the Nigerian state, stressing that the protection of all citizens, regardless of faith, is non-negotiable.

 

 

 

According to presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, Ribadu made the remarks in Abuja at the close of a US–Nigeria Joint Working Group session.

 

 

 

“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.”

 

 

In a follow-up post on X, Ribadu said the joint working group has recorded “tangible operational gains” in the fight against terrorism.

 

The working group was set up following Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) by US President Donald Trump, a label that often triggers policy actions aimed at ending severe violations of religious freedom.

 

 

At the meeting, Ribadu led Nigeria’s delegation, which included representatives from 10 ministries and agencies, while the US delegation, made up of eight federal agencies, was led by Allison Hooker, US under-secretary of state.

 

 

Ribadu said Nigeria-US security cooperation has moved from dialogue to action, resulting in the disruption of terrorist networks and transnational criminal groups. He also praised the US for supplying drones, helicopters, platforms, spare parts, and other support systems over the past five years.

 

Speaking at the session, Hooker said the US was committed to expanding its partnership with Nigeria, particularly on deterring violence against Christian communities.

 

 

“Today, we are here to discuss how we can work together to deter violence against Christian communities, prioritising counter-terrorism, insecurity, investigation of attacks, and holding perpetrators accountable,” she said.

 

 

She added that efforts would focus on reducing killings, forced displacement, and abductions of Christians, especially in Nigeria’s north-central states.