Nigeria and the US met in Abuja to address religious freedom concerns following Nigeria’s CPC designation.
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| Allison Hooker |
Fresh details have emerged from a high-level engagement between the United States and the Federal Government of Nigeria following Washington’s decision to place Nigeria on its Country of Particular Concern (CPC) list over religious freedom issues.
The meeting marked the first formal session of the US–Nigeria Joint Working Group, convened in Abuja on Thursday, January 22, 2026.
Background to Nigeria’s CPC Designation
US President Donald Trump had earlier designated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern under the International Religious Freedom Act.
The decision was based on allegations of persistent violations of religious freedom, with particular attention on violence against Christian communities in parts of the country.
The designation prompted diplomatic engagement between both governments, leading to the formation of the Joint Working Group.
Purpose of the Joint Working Group
In a joint statement released after the meeting, both governments said the Working Group was established to reduce violence against vulnerable groups, especially Christians, and to support an environment where all Nigerians can practice their faith freely.
The statement emphasized the need to curb attacks linked to terrorism, banditry, separatist violence, and criminal militias.
High-Level Delegations From Both Sides
Nigeria’s delegation was led by the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and included representatives from ten ministries and government agencies involved in security, justice, and foreign affairs.
The US team was headed by Under Secretary of State Allison Hooker, alongside officials from eight American federal agencies.
Focus on Security and Religious Freedom
Both sides described the talks as strategic, centering on how deeper cooperation could strengthen national security and improve religious freedom across Nigeria.
The US delegation acknowledged Nigeria’s recent efforts to address insecurity, particularly in the North-Central region, where attacks on farming communities and Christian populations have been recurrent.
Commitment to Shared Democratic Values
The meeting also reaffirmed the long-standing relationship between Nigeria and the United States. Both countries highlighted shared commitments to pluralism, the rule of law, and respect for national sovereignty.
Participants agreed that protecting religious freedom aligns with Nigeria’s constitution and broader democratic principles.
Strengthening Counter-Terrorism Cooperation
On security collaboration, both governments agreed to deepen counter-terrorism efforts through improved operational cooperation, access to technology, anti-money laundering initiatives, and measures to disrupt terrorism financing.
They also discussed strengthening investigative and law enforcement capacity to ensure perpetrators of violence are brought to justice.
Protection of Vulnerable Communities
The joint statement stressed the importance of protecting civilians, particularly members of vulnerable Christian communities, while also ensuring the safety of Nigerians of all faiths.
The US delegation commended what it described as Nigeria’s urgent actions to improve security for at-risk communities facing violence and terrorism.
It was agreed that the next session of the US–Nigeria Joint Working Group would take place in the United States. The exact date will be determined through diplomatic channels.
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