The United States has called on the Nigerian government to step up efforts to protect Christian communities from attacks and facilitate the safe return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their communities.
The appeal was made by the US Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Frank Garcia, during his visit to Abuja for discussions with senior Nigerian officials on strengthening the US-Nigeria strategic partnership.
A statement released by the US Embassy in Abuja on Wednesday said Garcia held meetings with the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye; Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede; Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi; Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani; and National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
The discussions focused on security cooperation, the protection of Christian communities, justice sector reforms, digital transformation, commercial diplomacy and regional stability.
During engagements on defence and security matters, Garcia acknowledged Nigeria’s increased efforts through the US-Nigeria Joint Working Group to address the country’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern.
The embassy statement said Garcia urged Nigerian authorities to intensify measures to protect Christians from attacks and commit more resources towards ensuring that displaced persons can safely return home.
“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,” the statement said.
Garcia said he looked forward to the next meeting of the Joint Working Group scheduled to hold in Washington, DC, in August, where progress on the agreed areas of focus would be reviewed.
The statement added that discussions with the Attorney General of the Federation centred on prosecutions related to terrorism, criminal accountability and religious freedom.
Garcia also met with Bosun Tijani to explore opportunities for increased US investment and stronger private sector participation in Nigeria’s expanding economy.
The US official further engaged executives of major American energy and technology companies to discuss Nigeria’s business environment and potential investment opportunities.
