The Nigerian government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting religious freedom and tackling violent extremism after the United States designated Nigeria a possible “Country of Particular Concern” over religious-rights issues.
On 31 October 2025, former U.S. President Donald J. Trump announced he was designating Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) under the 1998 International Religious Freedom Act, citing alleged mass killings of Christians.
In a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and signed by spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the government said Nigeria remains resolutely focused on preserving the rights of all citizens, irrespective of religion, race, or creed.
The statement noted that violent extremism across the West African and Sahel regions is driven by “special interests who have helped drive such decay and division,” insisting that the government views such conflicts as complex involving ethnicity, criminal networks, banditry, terrorism and climate pressure not purely religion.
The ministry also emphasized that Nigeria’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths, and that the country remains a tolerant and God-fearing nation that values inclusion and respects international law and global cooperation.
“We mourn all victims of violent extremism and salute our armed forces who continue to fight against vicious but cowardly foes,” the ministry said.
The government described the United States as a close ally, stressing that both nations share long-standing cooperation in security, democracy strengthening, counter-terrorism, and trade.
According to the Ministry, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration will continue to maintain a “laser focus” on sustaining national unity while working with partners across the world who believe in genuine peace.