The Federal Government has warned that any violence framed along religious lines will be treated as a direct attack on the Nigerian state, reaffirming its commitment to protect all citizens regardless of faith.
National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, made the declaration at the conclusion of the first session of the U.S. Nigeria Joint Working Group on religious freedom and insecurity, held in Abuja on January 22.
“Nigeria is a deeply plural society, and the protection of all citizens, Christians, Muslims, and those of other beliefs is non-negotiable,” Mr Ribadu said.
“Violence framed along religious lines is treated as an attack on the Nigerian state itself.”
He explained that the government’s response to insecurity goes beyond military action, stressing the integration of law enforcement, humanitarian safeguards, and strategic communication.
“Our response integrates security operations, rule of law, humanitarian safeguards, and strategic communication, ensuring that operational successes translate into public confidence and strengthened social cohesion,” he added.
The meeting followed the United States’ designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern under the International Religious Freedom Act. The Joint Working Group was established to deepen bilateral cooperation aimed at reducing violence against vulnerable communities, strengthening accountability for attacks, and improving civilian protection.
Nigeria’s delegation was led by Mr Ribadu and included officials from multiple ministries and security agencies. The U.S. delegation was headed by Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker, alongside representatives of several federal agencies.
Ms Hooker acknowledged Nigeria’s diversity and the complexity of its security challenges, stressing the importance of sustained cooperation.
“The Working Group provides a platform for both countries to move beyond expressions of concern to practical actions that deter violence, strengthen investigations, and ensure perpetrators are held accountable,” she said.
Mr Ribadu noted that Nigeria’s partnership with international allies, including the United States, is already yielding results.
“We want Nigerians to know that this partnership is working, that it is delivering tangible gains, and that our collective efforts will continue to yield positive gains,” he said.
Security analysts say the government’s framing of religiously motivated violence as an attack on the state reflects growing concern over extremist and criminal groups exploiting religious identities to fuel division and undermine national unity.
Both delegations agreed that engagements under the Joint Working Group would continue, with the next meeting expected to be held in the United States at a date to be determined through diplomatic channels.
