US urges Nigeria to strengthen protection for christians, IDPs

The United States has called on Nigeria to intensify efforts in protecting Christian communities from attacks and to facilitate the safe return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their homes. The appeal was made by US Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Frank Garcia, during a visit to Abuja.

Garcia met with several senior Nigerian government officials, including the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Chief of Defence Staff, Attorney General, Minister of Communications, and the National Security Adviser. Their discussions focused on advancing the U.S.-Nigeria strategic partnership, encompassing security cooperation, justice sector reform, digital transformation, commercial diplomacy, and regional stability.

During security-focused meetings, Garcia acknowledged Nigeria's increased efforts within the U.S.-Nigeria Joint Working Group to address the country's designation as a Country of Particular Concern. He specifically pressed Nigerian officials to allocate more resources and implement stronger measures for the protection of Christians and the resettlement of IDPs.

The Assistant Secretary also engaged with the Attorney General on topics including Islamic terrorism prosecutions, criminal accountability, and religious freedom. Further discussions with the Minister of Communications explored opportunities for increased U.S. investment and private sector engagement in Nigeria's economy. Garcia also met with executives from leading U.S. energy and technology companies to discuss the business climate and investment prospects in Nigeria.

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He also pressed the Nigerians to do more to protect Christians from attacks, and that greater efforts and resources must be allocated to the safe return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their homes.