Nigeria: US House Committees’ report a catalyst for enhanced cooperation –Idris

*Alhaji Mohammed Idris, fnipr, Minister for Information and National Orientation, restates the Federal Government of Nigeria remains firmly committed to upholding the constitutional protections through coordinated military and law enforcement operations across affected regions in the country

Gbenga Kayode | ConsumerConnect

The Federal Government of Nigeria has said it acknowledged the recent statements and recommendations from its engagements within the United States (US) Congress.

ConsumerConnect reports the statements and recommendations are contained in a joint report on Christian persecution and security developments in Nigeria, which the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the House Appropriations Committee submitted to the White House Monday, February 23, 2026.

Speaking on the development, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, fnipr, Honourable Minister for Information and National Orientation, Tuesday, February 24, stated Nigeria acknowledges that parts of the country have continued to face serious security challenges, including terrorism, banditry, and communal conflicts that have tragically affected many communities.

Idris said Federal Government remained deeply concerned about the loss of lives and destruction of property resulting from these criminal acts.

“We extend our sympathies to all victims and their families, regardless of faith, ethnicity, or region.”

The Minister also emphasised that “Nigeria does not have, and has never had, a state policy of religious persecution.

“The violence being confronted by our security agencies is not driven by government policy or religious bias, but by complex security threats, including terrorism, organised criminality, and longstanding communal tensions.”

He also explained the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria guarantees freedom of religion and freedom of worship for all citizens. The Federal Government remains firmly committed to upholding these constitutional protections and to ensuring equal protection under the law.

He equally explained that in response to evolving security threats in the West African country, the Federal Government has significantly strengthened coordinated military and law enforcement operations across affected regions.

He further stated that ongoing counter-terrorism offensives have degraded the capacity of armed groups, disrupted kidnapping networks, and led to the arrest and neutralisation of key criminal elements.

The statement further disclosed that intelligence sharing and inter-agency collaboration have been enhanced to improve early warning and rapid response mechanisms, particularly in vulnerable rural communities.

Idris said besides, the Nigerian Government has intensified surveillance and clearance operations in forested areas long exploited by criminal groups.

He also mentioned the establishment and deployment of specially trained forest guards to aim at deny terrorists and bandits safe havens, improve territorial control, and strengthen community-level security presence.

The Minister said the efforts were complemented by increased investment in equipment, mobility assets, and technology to support the Armed Forces, and other security agencies.

He as well revealed that efforts are also ongoing to improve humanitarian response for internally displaced persons, facilitate the safe return of affected communities, and promote community-based peacebuilding initiatives that foster sustainable coexistence.

Idris restated: “Nigeria values its longstanding and strategic partnership with the United States.

“Our two countries share common interests in promoting security, economic development, and regional stability.”

The Minister assured the international system: “We remain open to constructive dialogue and cooperation rooted in mutual respect, shared responsibility, and recognition of Nigeria’s constitutional framework and sovereignty.

“The Federal Government will continue to engage international partners through appropriate diplomatic channels while remaining focused on its primary duty, the protection of all Nigerians.”

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