Nigeria has rejected its designation by the United States as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) over alleged violations of religious freedom, stating that the characterization does not accurately reflect the country’s reality or its constitutional commitment to protecting citizens of all faiths.
In a statement personally signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigerian government reaffirmed its dedication to upholding religious liberty and tolerance, insisting that the country remains a democracy governed by constitutional guarantees of freedom of religion and belief.
“Nigeria stands firmly as a democracy governed by constitutional guarantees of religious liberty,” President Tinubu stated. “Since 2023, our administration has maintained an open and active engagement with Christian and Muslim leaders alike and continues to address security challenges that affect citizens across faiths and regions.”
The United States had on Friday re-listed Nigeria among countries of particular concern, claiming that “Christianity is facing an existential threat in Nigeria.” The designation, made under the US International Religious Freedom Act, places Nigeria alongside countries like Iran, Pakistan, and North Korea.
But President Tinubu, in his response, argued that the label was unjustified and failed to acknowledge ongoing efforts by his administration to promote religious harmony and peace among diverse communities.
“The characterisation of Nigeria as religiously intolerant does not reflect our national reality, nor does it take into consideration the consistent and sincere efforts of the government to safeguard freedom of religion and beliefs for all Nigerians,” the President said.
He emphasized that religious freedom and tolerance are integral to Nigeria’s national identity, adding that the government does not condone any form of persecution.
“Religious freedom and tolerance have been a core tenet of our collective identity and shall always remain so. Nigeria opposes religious persecution and does not encourage it,” he said.
President Tinubu further reiterated his administration’s willingness to cooperate with the United States and other international partners in addressing mutual concerns about human rights and religious coexistence.
“Nigeria is a country with constitutional guarantees to protect citizens of all faiths,” the statement read. “Our administration is committed to working with the United States government and the international community to deepen understanding and cooperation on the protection of communities of all faiths.”
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