Nigeria condemns US “Country of Particular Concern” tag, highlights counterterrorism progress
President Bola Tinubu
Abdullateef Fowewe
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, addressed the United States government’s recent designation of Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” (CPC) regarding religious freedom.
The Minister at a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday emphasised Nigeria’s ongoing fight against terrorism, stating, “Nigeria faces longstanding security challenges that have impacted Christians and Muslims alike, and we mourn every loss of life—knowing that even a single loss of life is one too many.”
He underscored President Bola Tinubu’s commitment stressing, “Since May 2023, when he assumed office, Nigeria’s security agencies have neutralized more than 13,500 terrorists through sustained operations and arrested over 17,000 suspects.”
Idris called the US perception a “wrong perception and misrepresentation of the security challenges in our country” and highlighted the diversity within Nigeria’s Armed Forces, noting, “Several leading personnel are Christians, working and succeeding alongside their Muslim colleagues in the fight against extremists.”
He detailed achievements including the rescue of over 9,800 abducted victims and the interception of more than 20 gun-running networks.
Regarding collaboration, the Minister said, “The Government of Nigeria remains open and willing to work closely with the Government of the United States to achieve our shared goal — the complete elimination of terrorism on Nigerian soil.”
Idris asked for a nuanced understanding of Nigeria’s complex realities as a “vast, multi-ethnic, and multi-religious nation,” urging for “constructive engagement” and inviting “all our partners to join us in this noble endeavour — anchored on trust, collaboration, and mutual respect.”
Closing, he assured, “I want to assure Nigerians that the country is in capable and steady hands with President Tinubu leading the charge to boost our economy, strengthen our military and intelligence capabilities and leading the country towards greater and shared prosperity.”
