Pastors, theological scholars, and church leaders from across the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have appealed to the United States Senate to rescind its decision to include Nigeria among countries designated as violators of religious freedom.
The appeal was part of the resolutions reached at the end of the 65th Annual Ministers’ Conference of the Baptist Theological Seminary, held in Kaduna.
In a communiqué issued on Friday and signed by Rev. Joseph John Hayab, Chairman of the Board of Governors, and Rev. Dr. Mannaseh Panpe, Acting President of the Seminary, the conference expressed deep concern over the U.S. Senate’s move to label Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC).
According to the communiqué, such a designation could worsen insecurity and religious tension rather than resolve them.
‘While the Conference acknowledged that Christians in Nigeria face persecution, not only through killings but also through various forms of discrimination based on faith, it appealed to foreign governments and international bodies not to place Nigeria on the CPC list,’ the statement read.
The conference argued that branding Nigeria as a CPC could restrict access to critical military assistance and security equipment, thereby weakening the country’s capacity to fight terrorism, banditry, and other violent crimes.
‘Delegates further cautioned that labeling Nigeria as a CPC could inadvertently escalate violence, as such action may limit access to military assistance and legitimate security equipment,’ the communiqué added.
Instead, the Baptist leaders urged the U.S. and other international partners to adopt constructive and collaborative measures to support Nigeria in promoting religious freedom and addressing insecurity.
The conference also lamented the growing hardship facing Nigerians, citing banditry, insurgency, and unemployment as factors that have disrupted livelihoods and weakened community ties.
‘The government must lead with the fear of God, formulate people-centered economic policies, and prioritise human welfare above political interests,’ the communiqué stated.
While acknowledging the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State in strengthening national unity and security coordination, the delegates urged governments at all levels to sustain ongoing reforms, support local peacebuilding efforts, and ensure justice for victims of violence.