The Federal Government says Nigeria’s security problems are not religious, despite recent claims from the United States that Christians face targeted attacks. The Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, stated this on Tuesday in Abuja after a closed-door meeting with a visiting US Congressman and the US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr.
His comments come weeks after US President Donald Trump described Nigeria as a “country of particular concern,” alleging a campaign of violence against Christians. Fagbemi said the meeting offered the government a chance to explain the nature of the threats the country faces and to allow the US delegation to see conditions on the ground.
He told journalists that Nigeria is dealing with terrorism and violent extremism, but not religious persecution. He said the government is taking steps to address insecurity and continues to prosecute suspects linked to extremist groups.
Fagbemi said his ministry follows due process in terrorism cases. He provided new figures on prosecutions, noting that between 2017 and 2025, courts recorded 860 convictions and 891 acquittals. He said the acquittals show that the government does not detain people without evidence and that courts remain central to determining guilt.
He added that the Federal Government respects all court decisions, whether they result in conviction or discharge.
The Attorney-General also confirmed that the visiting US lawmaker had held meetings with several security agencies, civil society groups and religious organisations.
He urged Nigerians to avoid framing the country’s security problems as religious, saying the situation is often exaggerated. He insisted the government is working to stabilise affected areas and continue counter-terrorism operations.
