The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, has said that ongoing diplomatic engagements between Nigeria and the United States are proving effective in easing recent tensions between both countries.

Idris disclosed this during an interview on the UK-based Sky News programme, The World With Yalda Hakim, according to a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday by his Special Assistant on Media, Malam Rabiu Ibrahim.

He said communication lines between both nations have been opened, and talks are progressing toward a better understanding of Nigeria’s internal dynamics.

“We believe that most of the information out there stems from a lack of proper understanding of the diversity and complexity of the problem we have at hand,” Idris explained.

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Nigeria Engaging U.S. Through Diplomatic Channels

The minister confirmed that the Federal Government of Nigeria is actively engaging the U.S. government through established diplomatic channels, emphasizing transparency and mutual respect in addressing the issues raised.

Idris also pointed to evidence of links between a proscribed separatist organisation in Nigeria and certain U.S. lobby groups allegedly working to misinform American authorities.

“We are seeing a direct connection between U.S. lobbyists and the proscribed terrorist organisation in Nigeria,” he said.
“They have set up lobby networks contacting influential people in the U.S. to push their agenda.”

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U.S. Has Been a Reliable Partner in Counterterrorism Efforts

While acknowledging that Nigeria continues to face complex security challenges, Idris praised the U.S. government’s long-standing support in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism.

“In the past, the U.S. government helped Nigerian authorities to deal with terrorism. We are calling on them again to partner with us to achieve lasting peace,” he noted.

The minister added that the Nigerian government remains committed to collaboration with international partners to combat insecurity and maintain regional stability.

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Nigeria Urges Understanding of Its Diversity

Idris expressed concern over what he described as misleading data and assumptions being circulated internationally, urging global partners to appreciate Nigeria’s social, ethnic, and religious diversity.

“Some of the assumptions are based on data that cannot stand scientific scrutiny,” he stated.
“We share the concerns of the international community about some of the killings, but these issues are not driven by religious persecution.”

He reaffirmed that Nigeria’s constitution guarantees religious freedom, stressing that the country remains a multi-faith democracy working to ensure peace and national unity.