By Charles Pemu 
ABUJA, Nigeria — The Federal Government of Nigeria has publicly reaffirmed its commitment to protecting religious freedom and fostering tolerance among its diverse citizenry, following a recent statement issued by the United States regarding the issue in Nigeria.
In a press statement signed on Saturday by the Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the government asserted its resolve to tackle violent extremism and defend the rights of all citizens.
Tackling Extremism and Celebrating Diversity
The statement confirmed that the Federal Government had noted the recent communication from the United States on religious freedom. It underscored the administration’s focus on combating the root causes of unrest:
“We remain committed in our resolve to tackle the violent extremism that is fuelled by special interests who have helped drive such decay and division in countries across the intersecting West African and Sahel regions.”
Mr. Ebienfa conveyed the government’s condolences to all victims of violent extremism and commended the armed forces for their continued efforts to restore peace and security nationwide.
He emphasized that, like the United States, Nigeria views its diversity as its greatest strength, affirming the nation’s core values:
“Nigeria is a God-fearing country where we respect faith, tolerance, diversity and inclusion, in concurrence with the rules-based international order.”
The Foreign Affairs spokesperson concluded by stressing the robust diplomatic relationship between the two nations, expressing confidence in their continued partnership under the Tinubu administration.
“The US has been – and we trust will always remain – a close ally, because the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the Government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will maintain our laser focus and steadfast commitment to all partners who believe in genuine peace, stability, freedom and democracy,” the statement read.