Speaking on the UK-based Sky News programme, The World With Yalda Hakim, on Monday night, Idris confirmed that communication channels between both countries have been reopened and discussions are ongoing to clarify misunderstandings.
“Channels of communication have been opened, I can confirm that; we are talking to them, and I think they are understanding the situation better,” the minister said. “We believe that most of the information is a result of a lack of proper understanding of the diversity and complexity of the problem we have at hand.”
Idris also alleged that some U.S.-based lobby groups have links with a proscribed separatist organization in Nigeria, accusing them of spreading misinformation to influence U.S. policy against Nigeria. “We are seeing a direct connection between U.S. lobbyists and a proscribed terrorist organization in Nigeria. They have set up this lobby in the U.S., contacting high-profile individuals to lobby on their behalf,” he said.
He praised the U.S. government’s past support for Nigeria in combating terrorism and appealed for renewed cooperation. “The United States has previously helped Nigerian authorities to deal with this situation; we are calling on them to partner with us once again so we can achieve lasting peace in our country,” Idris said.
The minister expressed Nigeria’s concern over recent reports and figures emanating from the U.S. on the country’s security and human rights situation, describing them as misleading. He urged the international community to appreciate the unique complexities of Nigeria’s challenges.
“We want to tell the world that this is not the case, and to appeal for understanding. We share the concerns about the killings going on, but what we want is a fair appreciation of the diversity and complexity of the situation,” he said.
He reaffirmed that Nigeria’s constitution guarantees religious freedom and that the nation remains a multi-faith society. “Despite the conflicts, Nigeria is not a country of religious persecution,” the minister stated.
