Abuja — The Federal Government says it remains firmly committed to protecting religious freedom and promoting tolerance, responding to a recent statement by the United States on the state of religious liberty in Nigeria.
In a press release on Saturday, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa said the government is resolute in tackling violent extremism “fuelled by special interests” across Nigeria and the wider West African–Sahel region.
“We mourn all the victims of violent extremism and salute our armed forces as they continue to fight against vicious but cowardly foes,” Ebienfa said, adding that the administration will “continue to defend all citizens, irrespective of race, creed, or religion.”
Underscoring Nigeria’s religious and cultural diversity, the statement described pluralism as the nation’s “greatest strength,” and stressed that respect for faith, tolerance, and inclusion aligns with the rules-based international order.
Ebienfa also highlighted Nigeria’s longstanding ties with Washington, expressing confidence that both countries will keep working together on shared priorities. “The US has been — and we trust will always remain — a close ally,” he said, noting the Tinubu administration’s “laser focus” on partnerships that advance peace, stability, freedom, and democracy.
The response follows renewed international attention on religious freedom in Nigeria, where authorities say they are intensifying security operations against extremist violence while pressing for community cohesion and interfaith engagement.
While the statement did not specify additional policy steps, it reiterated Abuja’s support for security forces and pledged continued efforts to restore peace in affected areas. “Like America, Nigeria has no option but to celebrate the diversity that is our greatest strength,” the ministry said.
