The Federal Government has responded to recent comments by the United States on religious freedom in Nigeria, insisting that the country remains firmly committed to protecting the rights of all citizens and will not be swayed by external misjudgments of its domestic realities.
In a statement issued Saturday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja, the government said Nigeria’s record on religious tolerance and inclusion speaks for itself, stressing that it continues to combat violent extremism “fueled by special interests” across the West African and Sahel regions.
“We remain committed in our resolve to tackle the violent extremism that is fueled by special interests who have helped drive such decay and division in countries across the intersecting West African and Sahel regions,” the ministry said.
The statement, signed by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson of the Ministry, described Nigeria as a “God-fearing and tolerant nation” where faith and diversity are celebrated, not politicized.
“Like America, Nigeria has no option but to celebrate the diversity that is our greatest strength. Nigeria is a God-fearing country where we respect faith, tolerance, diversity and inclusion, in concurrence with the rules-based international order,” it added.
While acknowledging Washington as a long-standing ally, the ministry subtly cautioned against narratives that undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty or efforts in fighting extremism.
“The U.S. has been—and we trust will always remain—a close ally, because the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the Government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will maintain our laser focus and steadfast commitment to all partners who believe in genuine peace, stability, freedom and democracy,” the statement read.
The government also paid tribute to victims of terrorism and commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their sacrifices, describing the country’s enemies as “vicious but cowardly foes.”
“We mourn all the victims of violent extremism and salute our armed forces as they continue to fight against vicious but cowardly foes.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria will continue to defend all citizens, irrespective of race, creed, or religion,” it said.