US Presses Nigeria for Enhanced Protection of Christians After Abductions

The United States has urged the Nigerian government to take more decisive action to protect Christians following the abduction of over 170 worshippers in Kaduna State. On January 18, 2024, gunmen attacked three churches, raising concerns about the safety of religious minorities in the region. Allison Hooker, the US Under Secretary for Political Affairs, emphasized the need for Nigeria to guarantee the right of its citizens to practice their faith freely and securely.

In a speech delivered in Abuja at the inauguration of the US–Nigeria Joint Working Group, Hooker highlighted the partnership between the two nations, which encompasses various shared interests, including trade, security, and regional stability. He noted that on October 31, 2025, former President Donald Trump designated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern due to its challenges with religious freedom.

Bola Tinubu, the President of Nigeria, has declared national security emergencies in regions vulnerable to violence, including those where the recent abductions occurred. Following the alarming incidents, Hooker stated that discussions would focus on strategies to deter violence against Christian communities, enhance counter-terrorism efforts, and hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.

During a World Economic Forum event in Davos, Trump asserted that US forces are effectively combating terrorist groups responsible for the violence against Christians in Nigeria, claiming they have “annihilated” numerous militants. He pointed to the significant number of Christians who have lost their lives due to these attacks, stating, “We are annihilating terrorists who are killing Christians.”

In response to the kidnappings in Kaduna, Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, announced intensified security operations in areas frequently targeted by attackers. He reiterated that these measures are not merely verbal commitments but are being implemented with concrete actions on the ground. Ribadu emphasized the importance of a national database to provide accurate data on violent incidents, which will aid in evidence-based decision-making and improve accountability within security responses.

The protection of all citizens in Nigeria, regardless of their religious beliefs, is a fundamental responsibility of the government, according to Ribadu. He stated, “Nigeria is a deeply plural society, and the protection of all citizens—Christians, Muslims, and those of other beliefs—is non-negotiable.” He also noted that violence motivated by religious differences is viewed as an attack on the Nigerian state itself.

Ribadu highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance investigations and prosecutions related to attacks on religious communities, ensuring that violence is met with justice, not just force. He conveyed a vision of a partnership with the US that extends beyond security cooperation, encompassing democratic resilience and the rule of law.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the collaboration between the US and Nigeria has resulted in tangible operational gains, including improved intelligence sharing. He noted that the US has committed to delivering military equipment, such as drones and helicopters, to support Nigeria’s security efforts.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, called on security agencies to expedite the rescue of the kidnapped worshippers and to apprehend the perpetrators. He condemned the recent attacks on vulnerable targets like schools and places of worship, stating that collective efforts are needed to enhance security across Nigeria. Tajudeen expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s administration to reverse the trend of violence.

As Nigeria grapples with these security challenges, the ongoing dialogue with the United States signifies a crucial step towards addressing the safety of religious minorities and reinforcing the country’s commitment to protecting its citizens. The partnership aims to foster a more secure environment for all Nigerians, ensuring that their rights to practice their faith freely are upheld.