Nigeria and the United States have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation on religious freedom and national security, pledging sustained joint action to protect vulnerable communities and hold perpetrators of violence accountable.
This is contained in a joint statement issued by Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the U.S. team lead, Under Secretary of State, Ms Allison Hooker, at the end of the first session of the U.S.–Nigeria Joint Working Group held in Abuja on Thursday.
According to the statement, the Working Group was established to address issues arising from Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern under the U.S. International Religious Freedom Act, while fostering practical cooperation to reduce violence and ensure freedom of worship for all Nigerians.
The discussions focused on strengthening collaboration to improve religious freedom and enhance security nationwide, while reaffirming the long-standing partnership between both countries based on shared values of pluralism, respect for the rule of law and national sovereignty.
The U.S. delegation welcomed Nigeria’s ongoing realignment of security resources, particularly in the North Central states, as part of efforts to address insecurity and protect civilians.
Both sides reaffirmed their strong commitment to the principles of religious freedom and agreed on the need for sustained measures to safeguard the rights to freedom of religion, expression and peaceful assembly in line with Nigeria’s constitution.
The statement also underscored the importance of protecting civilians, especially members of vulnerable Christian communities, and ensuring accountability for those responsible for acts of violence.
In addition, both countries agreed to further strengthen counter-terrorism cooperation through enhanced operational collaboration, access to technology, anti-money laundering measures, efforts to counter terrorist financing, and improved law enforcement and investigative capacity.
The U.S. side commended Nigeria for its prompt actions to enhance security for at-risk Christian communities and Nigerians of all faiths affected by terrorism and criminal violence.
The statement added that the next meeting of the U.S.–Nigeria Joint Working Group would be held in the United States at a mutually agreed date to be arranged through diplomatic channels.