The Federal Government has responded to a joint report by two committees of the United States House of Representatives on alleged Christian persecution in Nigeria, describing the development as an opportunity for deeper engagement and expanded cooperation between both countries.
In a statement issued by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the government said it had taken note of the recommendations contained in the report submitted on Monday to the White House by the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the House Appropriations Committee.
While acknowledging that parts of Nigeria continue to face significant security challenges, including terrorism, banditry and communal clashes, the Federal Government maintained that the violence confronting the country is not driven by state policy or religious bias.
The government expressed concern over the loss of lives and destruction of property caused by criminal elements, extending sympathies to victims and their families irrespective of faith, ethnicity or region.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s constitutional commitment to religious freedom, the government noted that the Constitution guarantees freedom of religion and worship for all citizens and ensures equal protection under the law.