Nigeria to Treat Religious Attacks as State Threat

Nigeria will treat any violence framed along religious lines as a direct attack on the state, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu has said.

Ribadu made the statement at the end of the first session of the U.S.–Nigeria Joint Working Group held in Abuja to address concerns over religious freedom and insecurity, according to a statement shared on Friday by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga.

“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,” he added.

Ribadu said the government’s response to insecurity goes beyond military action and combines security operations with the rule of law, humanitarian measures and public communication.

“Our response integrates security operations, rule of law, humanitarian safeguards, and strategic communication, ensuring that operational successes translate into public confidence and strengthened social cohesion,” he said.

The meeting was held on January 22, following the United States’ designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern under the International Religious Freedom Act.

The Joint Working Group was set up to strengthen cooperation on reducing violence against vulnerable communities, improving accountability for attacks and protecting civilians.

Nigeria’s delegation was led by Ribadu and included officials from security agencies and several ministries. The U.S. team was headed by Allison Hooker, Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, alongside representatives of U.S. federal agencies.

Hooker said the United States recognised Nigeria’s diversity and the complexity of its security challenges.

She stressed that sustained cooperation is essential to protecting civilians and upholding freedom of religion.

According to her, the Working Group provides a platform for both countries to move beyond expressions of concern to practical actions that deter violence, strengthen investigations, and ensure perpetrators are held accountable.

Ribadu said cooperation with international partners, including the United States, was already producing results, citing better coordination among Nigerian security agencies and increased pressure on terrorist and criminal groups.

“We want Nigerians to know that this partnership is working, that it is delivering tangible gains, and that our collective efforts will continue to yield positive gains,” he said.

Both sides agreed to continue engagements under the Joint Working Group, with the next meeting expected to take place in the United States on a date to be agreed through diplomatic channels.