The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Bishop Stephen Adegbite has called on the United States of America to strengthen its partnership with Nigeria in intelligence sharing, counter-terrorism training, and humanitarian assistance.
Bishop Adegbite made the appeal at a news briefing at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
He expressed appreciation for the concerns expressed by the United States over the safety of Christians globally, while clarifying that Nigeria’s security challenges cannot be described as a targeted campaign against any particular faith.
Bishop Adegbite emphasised that religious leaders in Nigeria stand united against all forms of violence regardless of ethnic or regional differences.
“As Christian leaders, we work closely with our Muslim counterparts under the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) to foster peace and mutual understanding. Our message has remained consistent: terrorism has no religion and banditry has no faith. When one community suffers, the entire nation bleeds,” he said.
The NCPC Executive Secretary commended the Nigerian and State Governments for their ongoing efforts to curb insecurity, noting that several terrorist leaders have been neutralised, kidnappers arrested, and displaced communities resettled.
He affirmed that the government continues to demonstrate commitment to protecting all citizens, regardless of religion or background.
Bishop Adegbite further explained that Nigeria, with its population of over 220 million people and more than 250 ethnic nationalities, remains home to Africa’s largest Christian and Muslim populations living peacefully side by side.
He cautioned that any external misinterpretation or military intervention could destabilise the West African sub-region, with possible humanitarian and economic consequences.
“What Nigeria needs is strategic cooperation and partnership, not coercion,” he stated, calling for responsible communication and global solidarity.
The NCPC boss appealed to international observers, political leaders, and advocacy groups to engage constructively with verified information and to support initiatives that promote peace, justice, and development.
He also urged Christians worldwide to continue praying for Nigeria and for unity among all faiths, stressing that the country’s true story is one of resilience, faith, and commitment to national unity.
Olusola Akintonde