By Erewunmi Peace

A Nigerian civil society organization, Grassroot Advocacy for Peace and Good Governance (GAPGG), has claimed that the United States’ frustration with Nigeria stems not from concerns over religious persecution, but from Nigeria’s refusal to host a U.S. military base and accept a deportee resettlement deal.

The CSO, chaired by Usman Muhammed Anache, stated that the U.S. is framing the issue as religious persecution to pressure Nigeria, but the real cause is geopolitical. He noted that the American approach exploits Nigeria’s sensitivity to faith-related matters.

This view aligns with official statements from Nigeria’s government. Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar has rejected claims of systemic religious persecution in the country, emphasizing Nigeria’s constitutional protections for all faiths.

Analysts suggest the disagreement also reflects Nigeria’s growing global influence, including its membership in BRICS, which may be a factor in Washington’s strategic interests.

While religious persecution remains a topic of concern internationally, GAPGG and Nigerian officials maintain that current U.S. criticism is largely motivated by Nigeria’s rejection of proposed military and deportee agreements.