The Federal Government of Nigeria has dismissed allegations by some members of the United States Congress claiming that Christians are being deliberately persecuted in the country.
According to reports, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described the claims as inaccurate and misleading.
He emphasised that Nigeria does not operate any policy that targets individuals or communities based on their faith.
The concerns were outlined in a report submitted to former U.S. President Donald Trump.
The document was compiled by members of the House Committees on Appropriations and Foreign Affairs following several months of investigations and on-the-ground assessments in Nigeria.
Lawmakers said the probe examined allegations of Christian persecution alongside wider issues of extremist violence.
The Review
The congressional review came after Trump designated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern,” a move that triggered further scrutiny led by Congressman Riley Moore and Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole. Their inquiry focused on claims of religiously motivated violence and insecurity.
Responding to the development, Idris acknowledged that Nigeria is grappling with serious security challenges, including terrorism, banditry, and communal conflicts.
However, he maintained that these incidents stem from broader security problems and criminal activities — not from any state-sponsored religious agenda.
What The Constitution Say
He reiterated that Nigeria’s Constitution guarantees freedom of religion and the right to worship without discrimination.
The government, he said, remains committed to safeguarding these rights and ensuring equal protection for all citizens, regardless of belief.
The Minister further noted that Nigeria values its longstanding strategic relationship with the United States and remains open to continued engagement and cooperation.
At the same time, he stressed the importance of respecting Nigeria’s sovereignty and constitutional processes.
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The government, he added, will continue to work with international partners through diplomatic channels while prioritising efforts to restore peace and protect lives and property across the country.