Written question asked by Baroness Cox (Crossbench), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Howell of Guildford (Conservative) on Monday, 23 April 2012.

Nigeria

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they will make representations to the Government of Nigeria about ensuring adequate security for religious minorities in the Middle Belt and Northern States, following recent attacks on churches in Jos.

Answer: The Government are committed to working with the Nigerian authorities in finding lasting solutions to security threats to ensure that Nigerians of all religions can live in peace. Co-operation to strengthen Nigeria's security architecture was outlined as a key element of our bilateral relationship when the Prime Minister, my right honourable friend the Member for Witney (Mr Cameron) met President Goodluck Jonathan in July 2011; this commitment was reaffirmed when they met on 22 February 2012. The Government will continue to share expertise in counterterrorism policy, doctrine and legal frameworks. We will also continue to support programmes in Nigeria that focus on addressing grievances that underpin conflict. This work has included establishing a Nigeria Stability and Reconciliation Programme and promoting interethnic and interfaith dialogue. In February 2012 our High Commissioner to Nigeria travelled to Plateau State, meeting with local religious and political leaders and demonstrating our support of dialogue and peace initiatives.

Secondary information