UN Envoy Says Insecurity Undermining Religious Freedom In Nigeria

June 23, 2026 – Abuja, Nigeria

The United Nations Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief has said violence ranging from terrorism and banditry to kidnappings, land grabbing, and attacks on communities has spread across many parts of Nigeria, undermining religious freedom.

The UN Special Rapporteur expressed concern over the escalating violence in Nigeria, which has affected both Christian and Muslim communities. The report noted that attacks on places of worship, killings of religious leaders, and forced conversions have become increasingly common.

The UN envoy also highlighted the impact of insecurity on religious freedom, noting that many Nigerians are unable to practice their faith freely due to fear of attacks.

The report stated: "The violence in Nigeria has taken on a religious dimension, with attacks on places of worship, killings of religious leaders, and forced conversions becoming increasingly common. This has had a chilling effect on religious freedom, as many Nigerians are now afraid to practice their faith openly."

Religious groups in Nigeria have welcomed the UN's attention to the issue. The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) have both called on the government to take urgent action to protect religious freedom.

CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said: We welcome the UN's recognition of the religious dimension of the violence in Nigeria. The government must take urgent action to protect the rights of all Nigerians, regardless of their faith.

MURIC Director, Prof. Ishaq Akintola, said: We are concerned about the rise of religious violence in Nigeria. The government must do more to protect both Christian and Muslim communities.

The Nigerian government has not yet responded to the UN's report. However, officials have previously dismissed such criticisms as "uninformed" and "interference in domestic affairs."

Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar has previously stated: Nigeria is a sovereign nation and will not tolerate interference in its domestic affairs. We are committed to protecting the rights of all Nigerians, regardless of their faith.

The UN's report highlights the extent of the security crisis in Nigeria and its impact on religious freedom. The government must take urgent action to protect the rights of all Nigerians, regardless of their faith. Failure to do so could lead to further international condemnation and potentially sanctions.

The report also underscores the need for Nigeria to address the root causes of insecurity, including poverty, unemployment, and weak governance. Without addressing these underlying issues, the violence is likely to continue.