Federal Government Views Religious Violence as Threat, Says Ribadu
The Federal Government considers all forms of religious violence in Nigeria as a direct threat to the state, National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu has said. He stressed that the protection of Christians, Muslims, and adherents of other faiths is non-negotiable.
Speaking on Thursday in Abuja at the conclusion of the US-Nigeria joint working group session, Ribadu highlighted the operational gains made in counter-terrorism efforts through the bilateral collaboration.
“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.”
Nigeria-US Security Cooperation
Ribadu led the Nigerian delegation, including representatives from 10 ministries and agencies, while the US team, headed by Under-Secretary of State Allison Hooker, included eight federal agencies.
In a post on his X page, Ribadu noted that the working group’s engagement has translated into “tangible operational gains” in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism. He credited the US government for delivering drones, helicopters, platforms, spare parts, and support systems procured over the past five years.
Hooker said the US delegation aimed to strengthen collaboration on shared security interests. She confirmed that discussions focused on measures to deter violence against Christian communities, particularly in north-central Nigeria.
“Today, we are here to discuss how we can work together to deter violence against Christian communities, prioritising counter-terrorism, insecurity, investigating attacks, and holding perpetrators accountable,” she said. “Reducing the number of killings, forced displacements, and abductions of Christians, particularly in north-central states.”
Context of Religious Violence in Nigeria
Nigeria has faced repeated attacks from non-state actors, including Boko Haram, ISWAP, bandits, and Lakurawa, primarily in the North East and North West regions. The government has classified these attacks, often framed along religious lines, as threats to national security.
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