The European Union (EU) has publicly acknowledged recent statements made by the Trump administration regarding security challenges in Nigeria, while simultaneously expressing sympathy with victims of the escalating violence across the country.
In a statement on Tuesday by Anouar El Anouni, the EU Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security, the bloc responded to a direct inquiry concerning whether American threats toward Nigeria would necessitate a specific response from the European External Action Service (EEAS). El Anouni stated clearly: “When it comes to Nigeria, the EU has taken note of the statements made by the American administration.”
The spokesperson then pivoted to confirming the EU’s commitment to the Nigerian populace amidst the ongoing crisis. “The EU expresses its solidarity with all the communities and families affected by the violence, including the recent large-scale attacks in the southern belt of Nigeria and in the northeast,” El Anouni said.
Reaffirming the bloc’s core principles, the spokesperson stressed the importance of community protection and coexistence.
“The EU reaffirms its commitment to freedom of religion and belief, and to the protection of all communities, especially to minorities, and we underline our commitment to the peaceful coexistence of the Nigerian population, beyond geographical, ethnic, political, or religious differences,” he noted.
Furthermore, El Anouni offered a nuanced perspective on the complex drivers of the conflict, cautioning against a simplistic interpretation: “We recognize the many factors behind the violence in Nigeria. Let us note that religion is only one of these factors, and only in certain instances.”
Finally, the spokesperson detailed the EU’s ongoing collaborative efforts with Nigerian authorities to mitigate violence and build stability in the region.
“The European Union cooperates with the competent Nigerian authorities and implement multifaceted support in Nigeria to prevent violence, to encourage the consolidation of peace and to assist the victims of violence and forced displacement,” El Anouni explained.
- Media Report