NCYP urges U.S. lawmakers to reconsider Nigeria’s religious freedom tag

●Insists designating Nigeria country of particular concern would do more harm than good

The Northern Christian Youth Professionals (NCYP) has joined Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto in appealing to the Government of the United States, particularly Senator Ted Cruz and other concerned legislators, to reconsider the call for Nigeria to be designated as a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged persecution of Christians.

The group, while acknowledging the painful reality of Christian killings across parts of northern Nigeria, said it believed that such a designation, though perhaps well-intentioned, could undermine ongoing national efforts and the goodwill being demonstrated by President Bola Tinubu’s administration toward promoting inclusivity, peace, and reconciliation.

The NCYP commended President Tinubu for his deliberate inclusion of Christians — especially from Northern Nigeria — in key administrative and security positions, stating that: “We are not surprised by this, knowing that the President has consistently proven himself to be a true nationalist, not a religious bigot. This conviction is why the NCYP confidently supported the Muslim–Muslim ticket in 2022 and worked tirelessly for its success, believing in President Tinubu’s vision for a united and equitable Nigeria.”

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They however decried the likely consequences of designating Nigeria as a “country of concern” — including restrictions on arms sales and security collaboration, saying it could weaken Nigeria’s capacity to combat terrorism, thereby worsening the suffering of innocent civilians across religious divides.

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The statement signed by the National Public Relations Officer of the group, Christian Oda read: “As Christians living in northern Nigeria, we are deeply aware of the trauma our communities have faced over the years. Yet, we also recognize that Muslim communities have similarly suffered grievous losses in the hands of terrorists and bandits. Lasting peace requires acknowledging this shared pain and working together for collective security, healing, and reconciliation.

“The NCYP cautions against the oversimplification of Nigeria’s complex insecurity as a “Christian genocide,” as such narratives not only distort reality but also diminish compassion for all victims — Christian and Muslim alike — who have lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods.

“We therefore appeal to all stakeholders — the Federal Government, religious institutions, and international partners — to approach this issue with empathy, balance, and a shared commitment to peace. Only through truth, justice, forgiveness, and mutual understanding can Nigeria find lasting reconciliation and national progress.”