JUST IN: Tinubu’s govt reacts to US congressional report on Nigeria

The Federal Government says a recent report by United States House Committees on Christian persecution in Nigeria should serve as a basis for broader cooperation between both countries.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, said the government has taken note of recommendations contained in a joint report submitted to the White House by the US house foreign affairs committee and the house appropriations committee.

Idris said Nigeria acknowledges that parts of the country continue to face serious security challenges, including terrorism, banditry and communal conflicts.

He said the federal government remains concerned about the loss of lives and destruction of property resulting from criminal acts and extended sympathies to victims and their families “regardless of faith, ethnicity, or region”.

“The violence being confronted by our security agencies is not driven by government policy or religious bias, but by complex security threats, including terrorism, organised criminality, and longstanding communal tensions,” he said.

Idris added that the constitution guarantees freedom of religion and worship for all citizens, noting that the government remains committed to upholding those protections and ensuring equal protection under the law.

He said coordinated military and law enforcement operations have been strengthened across affected regions to address evolving security threats.

According to him, ongoing counter-terrorism offensives have degraded armed groups, disrupted kidnapping networks and led to the arrest and neutralisation of key criminal elements.

Idris said Nigeria values its longstanding partnership with the United States and remains open to constructive dialogue rooted in mutual respect and shared responsibility.

“The Federal Government will continue to engage international partners through appropriate diplomatic channels while remaining focused on its primary duty, the protection of all Nigerians,” he added.