US Make Fresh Demands From Nigeria Over Security Of Christians.

 

The United States has urged Nigeria to take stronger action to protect Christian communities, following the kidnapping of more than 170 worshippers in Kaduna State.

The abductions, which took place during church services, have raised fresh fears about attacks targeting religious groups in the country.

The Kaduna State Government and the Nigeria Police initially denied the incident, but the police later confirmed that armed assailants had taken the worshippers.

Authorities said the kidnappers are demanding the return of 17 motorcycles worth about ₦28.9 million, claiming they were seized during military operations, before releasing the victims.

At a meeting of the U.S.–Nigeria Working Group in Abuja, the U.S. Under Secretary for Political Affairs, Allison Hooker, said Nigeria has made some progress in addressing insecurity, but recent attacks show that more needs to be done to protect Christians and allow them to practice their faith safely.

Hooker explained that the U.S. continues to support Nigeria in preventing violence against Christian communities, investigating attacks, holding those responsible accountable, and reducing killings, abductions, and forced displacements, especially in the North-Central region.

She cited previous cases where abducted Christians were released in Kwara State and from St. Mary’s Catholic School as positive outcomes of ongoing cooperation.

She also said that improving religious freedom and security in Nigeria would strengthen broader cooperation between the two countries, including in trade, economic partnerships, health initiatives, and counterterrorism efforts. 

Hooker added that efforts are being made to help displaced people return to their communities and cut off funding and weapons reaching terrorist groups.

In response, Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, acknowledged the serious security challenges and said the government is increasing military and law enforcement actions in affected areas. 

He stated that attacks targeting people because of their religion are unacceptable and will be met with both force and legal action.

Ribadu said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved wider security deployments, better intelligence coordination, and stronger investigations into attacks on religious communities. 

He noted that the government is improving early-warning systems, creating a national database on violence-related deaths and injuries, and ensuring that attacks on religious groups are addressed through both security operations and legal accountability.

According to Ribadu, these measures aim to protect all Nigerians, strengthen public confidence, and promote social unity, while making certain that perpetrators of religious violence are traced and prosecuted.