The Northern Christian Youth Professionals (NCYP), on Wednesday, joined Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto in appealing to the United States Government, particularly Senator Ted Cruz and other concerned legislators, to reconsider the decision to designate Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged persecution of Christians.
While acknowledging the painful reality of Christian killings across parts of northern Nigeria, the NCYP said that such a designation, “though perhaps well-intentioned, could undermine ongoing national efforts and the goodwill currently being demonstrated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration toward promoting inclusivity, peace, and reconciliation.”
Besides, the NCYP commended President Tinubu for his deliberate inclusion of Christians, “especially from Northern Nigeria in key administrative and security positions”, saying, “we are not surprised by this, knowing that the President has consistently proven himself to be a true nationalist, not a religious bigot.”
The National Public Relations Officer (PRO) of NCYP, Christian Oda, said in a statement, “This conviction is why the NCYP confidently supported the Muslim–Muslim ticket in 2022 and worked tirelessly for its success, believing in President Tinubu’s vision for a united and equitable Nigeria”.
According to him, the likely consequences of designating Nigeria as a country of concern — including restrictions on arms sales and security collaboration — could weaken Nigeria’s capacity to combat terrorism, thereby worsening the suffering of innocent civilians across religious divides.
“As Christians living in northern Nigeria, we are deeply aware of the trauma our communities have faced over the years. Yet, we also recognise that Muslim communities have similarly suffered grievous losses at the hands of terrorists and bandits. Lasting peace requires acknowledging this shared pain and working together for collective security, healing, and reconciliation”, the statement added.
The NCYP, however, cautioned against the oversimplification of Nigeria’s complex insecurity as a Christian genocide, as such narratives not only distort reality but also diminish compassion for all victims — Christian and Muslim alike — who have lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods.
“We therefore appeal to all stakeholders, the Federal Government, religious institutions, and international partners to approach this issue with empathy, balance, and a shared commitment to peace. Only through truth, justice, forgiveness, and mutual understanding can Nigeria find lasting reconciliation and national progress”, the statement added.
