US Raises Alarm, Sends Fresh Message to Tinubu Govt Over Safety of Christians
The United States has called on the Federal Government to step up measures aimed at protecting Christian communities across the country and ensuring the safe return of persons displaced by violence.
The call was made during a series of high-level meetings held in Abuja between US Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Frank Garcia, and top Nigerian government officials.
Garcia met with several senior officials, including the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
The discussions focused on strengthening cooperation between Nigeria and the United States in key areas such as security, justice sector reforms, digital development, trade, and regional stability.
The US government acknowledged efforts already being made by Nigeria through the US-Nigeria Joint Working Group established to address concerns surrounding the country’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC).
However, Washington maintained that more work needs to be done, particularly in tackling attacks on Christian communities and assisting displaced citizens affected by insecurity.
According to a statement issued after the meetings, Garcia stressed the need for stronger protection measures and increased support for victims of violence.
“Assistant Secretary Garcia welcomed Nigeria’s increased efforts under the US-Nigeria Joint Working Group to address Nigeria’s Country of Particular Concern designation. He also pressed the Nigerians to do more to protect Christians from attacks, and that greater efforts and resources must be allocated to the safe return of internally displaced persons to their homes.”
The US official noted that addressing insecurity and protecting vulnerable communities remain important areas of engagement between both countries.
The statement also indicated that the United States is looking forward to the next meeting of the Joint Working Group, scheduled to hold in Washington, DC, in August. The meeting is expected to review progress made by both nations and assess the implementation of previously agreed commitments.
During his visit, Garcia also held discussions with the Attorney General on issues relating to terrorism-related prosecutions, criminal justice reforms, accountability measures, and religious freedom.
