Nigeria and the United States have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation on religious freedom and national security, pledging sustained joint action to protect vulnerable communities and ensure accountability for perpetrators of violence.
The commitment is contained in a joint statement issued at the conclusion of the first session of the U.S.–Nigeria Joint Working Group, held in Abuja on Thursday. The statement was signed by Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the U.S. team lead, Under Secretary of State, Ms. Allison Hooker.
According to the statement, the Joint Working Group was established to address concerns arising from Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern under the U.S. International Religious Freedom Act, while fostering practical cooperation to reduce violence and guarantee freedom of worship for all Nigerians.
The discussions focused on strengthening collaboration to improve religious freedom and enhance national security, while recognising the long-standing partnership between both countries, anchored on shared values of pluralism, respect for the rule of law and national sovereignty.
The U.S. delegation welcomed Nigeria’s ongoing realignment of security resources, particularly in the North Central states, as part of efforts to address insecurity and protect civilians.
Both sides reaffirmed their “strong and unflinching commitment” to the principles of religious freedom, agreeing on the need for sustained measures to safeguard the rights to freedom of religion, expression and peaceful assembly, in line with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The statement emphasised the importance of protecting civilians, especially members of vulnerable Christian communities, and ensuring accountability for those responsible for acts of violence.
It also noted that both countries agreed to further strengthen counter-terrorism cooperation through enhanced operational collaboration, access to technology, anti-money laundering initiatives, counter-terrorism financing efforts, and the strengthening of law-enforcement and investigative capacities.
The U.S. side commended Nigeria for its prompt actions to enhance security for at-risk Christian communities and Nigerians of all faiths affected by terrorism and criminal violence.
The joint statement concluded that the next meeting of the U.S.–Nigeria Joint Working Group would be held in the United States at a mutually convenient date, to be arranged through diplomatic channels.
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