Religious Violence Is an Attack on Nigeria — Ribadu
The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, has declared that any form of violence framed along religious lines is regarded by the Federal Government as an attack on the Nigerian state itself, stressing that the protection of all citizens remains non-negotiable.
Ribadu made the statement in Abuja at the conclusion of a US–Nigeria Joint Working Group session, according to a statement released by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
Emphasising Nigeria’s religious diversity, the NSA said the government remains firmly committed to safeguarding the lives and rights of citizens regardless of religious affiliation.
“Nigeria is a deeply plural society, and the protection of all citizens—Christians, Muslims, and those of other beliefs—is non-negotiable,” Ribadu stated.
“Violence framed along religious lines is treated as an attack on the Nigerian state itself.”
In a follow-up post on X (formerly Twitter), Ribadu disclosed that the joint working group had recorded tangible operational gains in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and insecurity.
He explained that the collaboration, which was established following Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) by former US President Donald Trump, has shifted from dialogue to concrete action.
The CPC designation is often linked to policy measures aimed at addressing severe violations of religious freedom.
Ribadu said Nigeria-US security cooperation has yielded results, including the disruption of terrorist networks and transnational criminal groups operating within and beyond Nigeria’s borders.
He also commended the United States for providing critical security assistance over the past five years, including drones, helicopters, platforms, spare parts and other operational support systems.
The NSA led Nigeria’s delegation to the meeting, which comprised representatives from 10 ministries and agencies, while the US delegation—made up of officials from eight federal agencies—was led by Allison Hooker, the US Under-Secretary of State.
Speaking at the session, Hooker reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to strengthening its partnership with Nigeria, particularly in efforts to curb 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 the focus would include reducing killings, forced displacement and abductions of Christians, especially in north-central Nigeria, where religiously linked violence has been persistent.