Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, has declared that any form of violence framed along religious lines will be treated as a direct attack on the Nigerian state.
According to presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, Ribadu made the statement in Abuja at the close of a US–Nigeria Joint Working Group session on security.
“Nigeria is a deeply plural society, and the protection of all citizens — Christians, Muslims, and those of other beliefs — is non-negotiable,” Ribadu said.
“Violence framed along religious lines is treated as an attack on the Nigerian state itself.”
In a follow-up post on X, Ribadu revealed that the joint working group has recorded tangible operational gains in the fight against terrorism.
The group was established after Nigeria was designated a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) by US President Donald Trump, a classification linked to concerns over religious freedom violations.
Ribadu led Nigeria’s delegation, which included representatives from 10 ministries and agencies, while the US delegation — comprising officials from eight federal agencies — was led by Allison Hooker.
He noted that Nigeria–US security cooperation has shifted from talks to concrete action, leading to the disruption of terrorist networks and transnational criminal groups. Ribadu also commended the United States for supplying drones, helicopters, platforms, spare parts, and other security support over the past five years.
Speaking at the session, Hooker reaffirmed US commitment to expanding cooperation with Nigeria, particularly in curbing violence against Christian communities.
“Today, we are here to discuss how we can work together to deter violence against Christian communities, prioritising counter-terrorism, insecurity, investigation of attacks, and holding perpetrators accountable,” she said.
She added that efforts would focus on reducing killings, forced displacement, and abductions of Christians, especially in Nigeria’s North-Central states.
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