ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-The European Union has restated its regard for Nigeria’s sovereignty, distancing itself from external influence while assuring Nigeria of ongoing cooperation in peace efforts, interfaith engagement, and human rights promotion.
EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, made this known on Tuesday in Lagos during his interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, where he clarified the Union’s stance after US President Donald Trump’s recent comments about Nigeria.
According to Mignot, the EU’s approach is based on its long-standing relationship with Nigeria and not on the opinions of other countries.
“Our position is one of solidarity with Nigeria solidarity with victims of violence, with authorities working to protect citizens, and with the Nigerian people who overwhelmingly desire peaceful coexistence beyond ethnic and religious divides,” he said.
He stressed that the EU and its member nations fully uphold Nigeria’s sovereignty as well as its constitutional dedication to religious neutrality.
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He noted that the EU is open to expanding its assistance in peace, security and defence, including engagement with all relevant stakeholders such as civil society organisations, traditional rulers and religious leaders.
Mignot added that the EU will continue executing various peacebuilding programmes across Nigeria to foster unity.
“We also support programmes on deradicalisation, demobilisation and reintegration of ex-members of non-state armed groups in the North-East,” he said.
He reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to safeguarding all communities, especially minorities, and ensuring freedom of religion and belief.
While acknowledging Nigeria’s challenges in human rights and religious freedom, Mignot pointed out that the country has legal and institutional frameworks that guarantee basic liberties.
“The situation is not perfect, as in any country, but there exists a constitutional basis for the protection of human rights.
“It is up to Nigerian authorities and society as a whole to uphold and strengthen this environment of peaceful coexistence,” he stated.
He emphasised that the EU closely partners with civil society on initiatives promoting interfaith harmony and strong relations among religious groups.
He also mentioned that EU support is impartial and extends to all victims of violence regardless of the reasons behind such attacks.
Mignot maintained that EU engagement with Nigeria remains consistent and is not influenced by external actors, stressing that cooperation is anchored on “shared interest in a stable, prosperous, and democratic Nigeria.”
He further revealed that a peace, security and defence dialogue between Nigeria and the EU is expected soon to advance strategic collaboration.
He reiterated that the EU’s core goal is to assist Nigeria in strengthening stability and prosperity, adding that the nation’s future “lies firmly in the hands of Nigerians themselves.”
His comments follow President Trump’s recent threat of potential measures against Nigeria over claims of anti-Christian attacks, urging the U.S. to cut assistance to Nigeria and labelling the country a Country of Particular Concern in posts shared on social media.