From Victor Osula, Abuja
The United States and Nigeria have formally inaugurated a Joint Working Group in Abuja to combat rising insecurity and address the systemic persecution of religious communities.
The move follows the recent redesignation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) by the US government under the International Religious Freedom Act.
National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu led the Nigerian delegation, which comprised representatives from 10 ministries and agencies.
The US team, featuring officials from eight federal agencies, was headed by Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, Allison Hooker.
In a joint statement issued at the close of the first session on Thursday, January 22, 2026, both nations pledged to intensify efforts to protect vulnerable populations, with a specific focus on Christian communities in the North Central and Middle Belt regions.
The group aims to create a secure environment where Nigerians of all faiths can worship without the threat of violence from terrorists, bandits, or separatist militias.
Ribadu emphasised that the Nigerian government views religious violence as an “attack on the state itself,” noting that the protection of all citizens is non-negotiable.
He highlighted that the partnership has already moved “decisively beyond dialogue to action,” resulting in tangible operational gains through intelligence sharing and coordinated security maneuvers.
Under Secretary Hooker acknowledged the “tremendous strides” in bilateral cooperation since late 2025.
She noted that the US is committed to the timely delivery of major military hardware—including drones and helicopters—procured by Nigeria over the last five years.
Discussions also touched on anti-money laundering measures and building the investigative capacity of local law enforcement to hold perpetrators of mass atrocities accountable.
