Nigeria and the United States have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation on religious freedom and national security, pledging sustained joint action to protect vulnerable communities and ensure accountability for perpetrators of violence.

This was contained in a joint statement issued by Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the leader of the U.S. delegation, Under Secretary of State, Ms. Allison Hooker, at the conclusion of the first session of the U.S.–Nigeria Joint Working Group, held in Abuja on Thursday.

According to the statement, the Working Group was established to address concerns arising from Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern under the U.S. International Religious Freedom Act.

It is also aimed at fostering practical cooperation to reduce violence, particularly against Christian communities, and to guarantee freedom of worship for all Nigerians.

The joint statement noted that discussions focused on strengthening collaboration to enhance religious freedom and improve security nationwide, while acknowledging the long-standing partnership between both countries, founded on shared values of pluralism, respect for the rule of law, and national sovereignty.

The U.S. delegation welcomed Nigeria’s ongoing realignment of security resources, particularly in the North Central states, as part of efforts to tackle insecurity and protect civilians.

Both sides reaffirmed their “strong and unflinching commitment” to the principles of religious freedom.

“They also agreed on the need for active and sustained measures to safeguard the rights to freedom of religion, expression, and peaceful assembly in line with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the statement said.

It further emphasised the importance of protecting civilians, especially members of vulnerable Christian communities, and ensuring accountability for those responsible for acts of violence.

Both countries also agreed to strengthen counter-terrorism cooperation through enhanced operational collaboration, improved access to technology, anti-money laundering measures, efforts to counter the financing of terrorism, and the building of law enforcement and investigative capacity.

The U.S. side commended Nigeria for what it described as prompt actions to enhance security for at-risk Christian communities and Nigerians of all faiths affected by terrorism and criminal violence.

The joint statement concluded that the next meeting of the U.S.–Nigeria Joint Working Group would be held in the United States on a mutually agreed date, to be arranged through diplomatic channels.