Nigeria not in ‘panic mode’ over US warnings — Federal Government
The Federal Government has assured that it is not in “panic mode” following recent comments by the United States regarding alleged violence against Christians in Nigeria.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, gave the assurance while briefing journalists after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu on Thursday, November 6, in Abuja.
Idris confirmed that Nigeria has opened diplomatic channels with the U.S. to address the matter, emphasizing that the government prefers dialogue and a measured approach rather than public confrontation.
He noted that while the government takes the concerns raised by the U.S. seriously, it remains committed to safeguarding the lives and rights of all citizens, irrespective of their religious or ethnic affiliations.
“The government of Nigeria is indeed very stable. The President is calm. The Federal Executive Council members are indeed very calm. That is not to discountenance the issue. We are not saying that,” the Minister affirmed. “The killing of even one Nigerian citizen is of concern to the government of Nigeria.”
The Minister acknowledged the existence of security challenges, including violence in parts of the country, but insisted that the government is actively working to address them with a “greatest sense of responsibility.” He reiterated that the Nigerian Constitution guarantees the right of everyone to worship without hindrance, a commitment the government fully intends to uphold.
Idris concluded by appealing for cooperation, noting that terrorism and violence from extremists are not problems that can be solved by one country alone. He highlighted Nigeria’s ongoing regional and international security cooperation, including its partnership with the United States.
“We are responding responsibly, steadily and in the interest of our country also taking into account the concerns both from within and outside this country of what the situation in this [country is],” he concluded, emphasizing Nigeria’s tolerance for all religions.
