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The Federal Government has dismissed the United States’ designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC), describing the measure as a product of misinformation and a misreading of the nation’s security realities.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, gave the clarification on Wednesday in Abuja while addressing a press conference organised by the Ministry in response to the U.S. government’s position and remarks credited to President Donald Trump regarding Nigeria’s security situation.
Idris acknowledged anxieties sparked by Washington’s designation and the threat of military action, but insisted that Nigeria has remained resolute in tackling terrorism and protecting citizens of all faiths.
“Nigeria faces longstanding security challenges that have impacted Christians and Muslims alike, and we mourn every loss of life — knowing that even a single loss of life is one too many,” he said.
The Minister noted that since assuming office in May 2023, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has intensified the fight against terrorism, with security forces neutralising more than 13,500 terrorists and arresting over 17,000 suspects now undergoing prosecution or interrogation.
He also disclosed that security operations have led to the rescue and reintegration of over 9,800 abducted victims, including women and children.
Idris stressed that extremist violence in Nigeria is neither religiously nor ethnically selective.
“Any narrative suggesting that the Nigerian State is failing to take action against religious attacks is based on faulty data,” he stated.
The Minister linked the security challenges in northern Nigeria to regional instability driven by the collapse of Libya, proliferation of terrorist networks in the Sahel, and climate-induced conflicts fueling farmers-herders clashes in the North-Central.
He emphasised that recent changes in Service Chiefs and realignments within the security architecture reflect President Tinubu’s commitment to bolstering defence capabilities and accountability.
According to the Minister, incremental successes are evident across the country:
Over 592 terrorists neutralised in Borno in the last eight months Attacks significantly reduced nationwide — nearly 80% drop in the South-East More than 124,000 insurgents and family members surrendered Over 11,000 weapons recovered Major terror kingpins neutralised in Zamfara and Kaduna
He also detailed ongoing trials of high-profile suspects, including leaders of ANSARU and individuals linked to the 2011 UN Building bombing in Abuja and the 2022 attack on St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo.
So far, 125 convicted terrorists have been sentenced, with hundreds of cases at various stages of prosecution.
Idris reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to work closely with the United States and global partners to completely dismantle terrorism. He cited cooperation resulting in the deployment of Super Tucano aircraft and pending delivery of AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters to enhance counter-insurgency operations.
“Nigeria welcomes dialogue, cooperation and support from all friendly nations, including the United States. Constructive engagement is the surest path to peace and stability,” he said.
The Minister urged the U.S. to approach the Nigerian situation with an understanding of its complexity as a multi-religious democracy making notable strides in both governance and security reforms.
He assured citizens that President Tinubu remains committed to defending constitutional freedoms.
“Nigeria is in capable and steady hands. Every inch of our territory will be secured, and every citizen will live free from fear,” Idris concluded.
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