Following a recent statement by the United States of America on religious freedom in Nigeria, the Federal Government has reiterated its resolve to tackle the violent extremism that is fueled by special interests who have helped drive such decay and division in countries across the intersecting West African and Sahel regions.

In a statement, the spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, mourned all the victims of violent extremism and saluted the armed forces as they continue to fight against vicious but cowardly foes.

Ebienfa stated that the Federal Government will continue to defend all citizens, regardless of their race, creed, or religion.

"Like America, Nigeria has no option but to celebrate the diversity that is our greatest strength. Nigeria is a God-fearing country where we respect faith, tolerance, diversity and inclusion, in concurrence with the rules-based international order.

"The US has been - and we trust will always remain - a close ally, because the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the Government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will maintain our laser focus and steadfast commitment to all partners who believe in genuine peace, stability, freedom and democracy," he said.

ASA