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Written question asked by Lord Moylan (Conservative) on Thursday, 4 September 2025, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 18 September 2025. It was answered by Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Labour) on Tuesday, 23 September 2025 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Nigeria: Christianity

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government whether they have had discussions with the government of Nigeria concerning recent attacks on Christian communities in Benue State, and what steps they are taking (1) to support the protection of communities, and (2) to promote religious freedom in Nigeria.

Answer

Intercommunal violence has a devastating effect on communities. The root causes are complex and frequently relate to competition over resources, historical grievances, and criminality.  We are supporting Nigeria to tackle these root causes through our Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria (SPRiNG) programme and continue to engage in local and national peace-building efforts. British High Commission officials met with government representatives, traditional rulers and stakeholders across civil society in Benue State in July 2025.

The UK-Nigeria Security and Defence Partnership (SDP) is building capacity in Nigeria's security forces to tackle violence against all civilian communities, including religious communities. The former Minister for Africa discussed intercommunal violence with Nigerian ministers and officials during his visit in May 2025. Our officials in Abuja continue to engage with the Nigerian government and religious leaders on freedom of religion and belief.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL10250
Session
2024-26
Related items
Nigeria: Religious Freedom
Tuesday, 21 October 2025
Written questions
House of Lords
Subjects
Nigeria Religious freedom Violence Christianity
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk