The Governments of the United States and the Federal Republic of Nigeria have held the first session of the U.S.–Nigeria Joint Working Group aimed at addressing Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) under the International Religious Freedom Act.
The meeting took place in Abuja, bringing together senior officials from both countries to discuss measures to improve religious freedom and strengthen security across Nigeria.
The Working Group was established following Nigeria’s CPC designation by former U.S. President Donald J. Trump. Its primary objectives include reducing violence against vulnerable groups, particularly Christian communities, and ensuring that all Nigerians can freely practice their faith without intimidation from terrorists, separatists, bandits, or criminal militias.
Nigeria’s delegation was led by the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and comprised representatives from 10 ministries and government agencies. The U.S. delegation was headed by Under Secretary of State Allison Hooker and included officials from eight federal agencies.
Discussions during the session focused on areas where enhanced U.S.–Nigeria cooperation could improve religious freedom and bolster national security.
Both sides reaffirmed the long-standing partnership between the two countries, anchored on shared values of pluralism, respect for the rule of law, and national sovereignty.
The U.S. delegation welcomed Nigeria’s briefing on the realignment of security resources to address growing insecurity, particularly in the North Central states.
Both governments reiterated their commitment to upholding religious freedom and agreed on the need for sustained joint actions to protect the rights to freedom of religion, expression, and peaceful assembly, in line with Nigeria’s constitution.
Participants also underscored the importance of protecting civilians, especially members of vulnerable Christian communities, and ensuring accountability for perpetrators of violence.
Both countries reaffirmed their resolve to strengthen counter-terrorism cooperation through operational collaboration, access to technology, anti-money laundering efforts, countering the financing of terrorism, and building law enforcement and investigative capacity.
The U.S. delegation commended Nigeria for taking urgent steps to enhance security for at-risk Christian communities and Nigerians of all faiths affected by violence and terrorism.
It was agreed that the next meeting of the Joint Working Group would be held in the United States at a mutually agreed date to be determined through diplomatic channels.