FG Assures Protection of All Faiths, Responds to US Lawmakers’ Report on Religious Persecution

The Federal Government has responded to the joint report by the United States House Appropriations and Foreign Affairs Committees, which alleged the persecution of Christians in Nigeria.
In a statement issued Wednesday, Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, dismissed claims of targeted killings of Christians, emphasizing that “Nigeria does not have, and has never had, a state policy of religious persecution.”
He acknowledged the country’s security challenges, which have affected numerous communities, but stressed that the violence is driven by complex threats including terrorism, organized crime, and long-standing communal conflicts—not government policy or religious bias.
Idris highlighted ongoing measures by the federal government to strengthen security across affected areas. He pointed out that coordinated military and law enforcement operations have disrupted criminal networks, degraded armed groups’ capabilities, and led to the arrest of key offenders.
“Intelligence sharing and inter-agency collaboration have been enhanced to ensure early warning and rapid response, especially in vulnerable rural communities,” he added.
The Minister further noted intensified surveillance and clearance operations in forested areas, deployment of specially trained forest guards, and increased investment in equipment, mobility, and technology to support security agencies.
Efforts to address humanitarian concerns are also underway, with the government facilitating the safe return of displaced persons and promoting community-based peace-building initiatives.
Idris reiterated Nigeria’s openness to constructive dialogue and international cooperation while maintaining its constitutional sovereignty. He assured that the government remains committed to protecting all Nigerians, regardless of faith.