The United States has issued one of its strongest public calls yet for Nigeria to step up protection for Christian communities, urging President Bola Tinubu’s administration to take more decisive action against violent attacks and ensure the safe return of thousands of internally displaced persons (IDPs).
The appeal came from U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Frank Garcia, during a high-level visit to Abuja, where he met with top Nigerian officials to discuss security, justice reforms, economic cooperation and regional stability.
Garcia stressed that while Nigeria has made progress through the U.S.-Nigeria Joint Working Group, more action is needed to protect vulnerable communities, strengthen religious freedom and improve accountability in terrorism-related cases.
His meetings included talks with the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye; Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede; Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi; Minister of Communications, Bosun Tijani; and National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
The discussions also covered expanding U.S. investment in Nigeria’s digital economy, improving the business environment and strengthening cooperation in the fight against terrorism. Garcia expressed optimism ahead of the next Joint Working Group meeting in Washington, D.C., where both countries will review progress on security and governance.
The visit highlights Washington’s continued engagement with Africa’s largest economy as both nations seek closer cooperation while addressing growing security concerns affecting communities across Nigeria.
