The Nigerian government has officially responded to the recent designation by the United States as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) for religious freedom violations, defending its commitment to tackling violent extremism and reaffirming its alliance with the U.S.
In a press release dated Saturday, November 1, 2025, from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja, the government acknowledged the statement from the United States but attributed the nation’s security challenges to external forces.
“We remain committed in our resolve to tackle the violent extremism that is fueled by special interests who have helped drive such decay and division in countries across the intersecting West African and Sahel regions,” the statement read.
Signed by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the press release mourned all victims of violence and praised the Nigerian armed forces for their efforts against “vicious but cowardly foes.” The government asserted its dedication to protecting all citizens, “irrespective of race, creed, or religion.”
The statement emphasized Nigeria’s national identity, drawing a parallel with the United States. “Like America, Nigeria has no option but to celebrate the diversity that is our greatest strength,” it continued. “Nigeria is a God-fearing country where we respect faith, tolerance, diversity and inclusion, in concurrence with the rules-based international order.”
This response comes just a day after U.S. President Donald Trump announced the CPC designation, citing an “existential threat” to Christians in the country.
While directly addressing the U.S. statement, the Nigerian government stressed the enduring partnership between the two nations. “The US has been – and we trust will always remain – a close ally,” the ministry stated.
The communication concluded by affirming the current administration’s stance, noting that “the Government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will maintain our laser focus and steadfast commitment to all partners who believe in genuine peace, stability, freedom and democracy.”
The press release frames the issue as a fight against externally-fueled extremism rather than a state-sanctioned or tolerated persecution of any religious group, setting the stage for further diplomatic dialogue between Abuja and Washington.
