FG Vows to Treat Religious Violence as Direct Assault on Nigerian State – NSA Ribadu

The Federal Government has reaffirmed that any act of violence disguised as religious conflict will be regarded as a direct attack on the sovereignty of the Nigerian state, emphasizing that the safety of all citizens, regardless of their faith—Christians, Muslims, or others—remains sacrosanct.

National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu dropped this bombshell at the close of the inaugural session of the US-Nigeria Joint Working Group in Abuja on January 22, 2026, a gathering aimed at tackling religious freedom and insecurity issues. Ribadu stressed, “Nigeria is a deeply plural society, and the protection of all citizens—Christians, Muslims, and those of other beliefs—is non-negotiable. Violence framed along religious lines is treated as an attack on the Nigerian state itself.”

The NSA highlighted the government’s multifaceted strategy to combat insecurity, which extends beyond boots on the ground. “Our response integrates security operations, rule of law, humanitarian safeguards, and strategic communication, ensuring that operational successes translate into public confidence and strengthened social cohesion,” he added. Ribadu pointed to ongoing partnerships with international allies, including the United States, as key to recent gains, such as enhanced coordination among security agencies and mounting pressure on terrorist and criminal elements ravaging parts of the country. “We want Nigerians to know that this partnership is working, that it is delivering tangible gains, and that our collective efforts will continue to yield positive gains,” he assured.

The Joint Working Group was birthed following the United States’ designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) under the International Religious Freedom Act in November 2025. This tag came amid escalating concerns over severe violations of religious freedom, including systematic persecution of Christians by groups like Boko Haram and Fulani militants, which some reports have described as bordering on genocide. The US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) had recommended this status since 2009, citing the Nigerian government’s alleged tolerance of such atrocities. Recent incidents, such as the abduction of over 150 churchgoers in Kaduna State, have fueled international outcry and calls for accountability.

Nigeria’s delegation, spearheaded by Ribadu, included top officials from various ministries and security outfits. On the US side, Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, Allison Hooker, led the team, flanked by representatives from several federal agencies. Hooker acknowledged Nigeria’s diverse fabric and the knotty security challenges it faces, insisting that sustained bilateral efforts are crucial for shielding civilians and upholding religious liberties. “The Working Group provides a platform for both countries to move beyond expressions of concern to practical actions that deter violence, strengthen investigations, and ensure perpetrators are held accountable,” she stated.

Reactions have poured in since the announcement. The Save Nigeria Group (SNG) hailed the Working Group’s launch as a vital step toward curbing violence plaguing Christian communities in the Middle Belt. On social media, users like @ThatVyktur praised the stance, saying, “This is a clear and powerful stance by NSA Nuhu Ribadu. By treating religious violence as an attack on the state, Nigeria is sending a strong message that no group is above the law.” However, skeptics like @oladeji_bayo questioned enforcement, noting, “No wonder why those arrested or surrendered are being treated with kid gloves.”

US lawmakers, including Senator Ted Cruz, have pushed for the CPC redesignation, aligning with USCIRF’s calls amid reports of worsening Christian massacres. With potential sanctions looming in 2026, experts warn that failure to address these issues could strain US-Nigeria ties further.

As Nigeria grapples with these challenges, the FG’s declaration signals a renewed push for unity and justice, but stakeholders insist that words must match actions to restore peace across the nation.

By NaijaChoice News Desk, with additional reporting from Abuja.