The Federal Government has intensified diplomatic engagement with the United States to secure a CPC designation reversal, following Nigeria’s classification as a Country of Particular Concern over religious freedom issues. The move reflects ongoing bilateral discussions focused on security cooperation and regional stability.
The United States designated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern in 2025, citing concerns over “severe, systematic violations of religious freedom.” The designation was linked to reported violence involving extremist groups such as Boko Haram and armed militias, particularly in the North East and Middle Belt regions.
The CPC classification is issued by the U.S. Department of State and applies to countries identified for serious violations of religious freedom. Nigerian authorities have consistently maintained that the designation does not fully reflect the country’s security efforts or its religious diversity.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, disclosed that the issue of CPC designation reversal was part of discussions with the U.S. Chargé d’Affaires, David Heffern, during a courtesy visit in Abuja. She stated that the meeting covered “security and defence, border and migration challenges, counter-terrorism initiatives, intelligence sharing, visa issues and various other matters of mutual interest.”
According to her, both countries also reviewed ongoing collaboration through the Joint Working Group, which is addressing security concerns and promoting regional stability. Odumegwu-Ojukwu described the engagement as constructive, adding that Nigeria would continue to pursue measures necessary for a CPC designation reversal while strengthening bilateral relations.
“It was a very constructive engagement with U.S.A Charge d’Affaires, David Heffern… We also discussed… Nigeria’s CPC (Country of Particular Concern) designation by the United States,” she said. She further noted that the government would continue to “engage on the necessary measures and collaborations needed to reverse this designation.”
The CPC designation reversal effort carries diplomatic and economic implications for Nigeria’s international standing. Removal from the list could strengthen bilateral relations with the United States and improve perceptions of Nigeria’s human rights and security framework.
The engagement also reflects ongoing cooperation between both countries on counter-terrorism, intelligence sharing, and migration management. Sustained dialogue may influence policy alignment and international partnerships in security and governance. At the national level, the process underscores the government’s emphasis on addressing security challenges while maintaining international credibility.
