The Hope Alive Initiative (HAI), a pro-good-governance and development advocacy group, has faulted the recent decision of the United States Government to classify Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC), saying such a move undermines ongoing efforts to address the country’s complex security challenges.
HAI, in a statement signed by its Director of Media and Communications, Ernest Omoarelojie, described the US position — especially the accompanying threat of military intervention — as “misguided and counterproductive.”
The group maintained that Nigeria needs global cooperation, not confrontation, to strengthen its internal security and peacebuilding efforts.
“While we acknowledge with profound sorrow the murderous killings by extremist groups and the tragic loss of innocent lives, we must categorically state that the victims cut across all religious and ethnic divides,” HAI said.
“This is not a one-dimensional religious conflict but a complex, multidimensional security crisis affecting Christians, Muslims, and adherents of all faiths alike.”
The group therefore urged President Donald Trump and the US government to adopt a more constructive approach by collaborating with Nigeria to enhance regional stability, counter terrorism, and protect human rights in line with America’s global advocacy for justice and peace.
“We therefore urge President Trump and the US government to pursue collaboration rather than confrontation — working jointly with Nigeria to enhance regional stability, strengthen counter-terrorism efforts, and ensure the safety and security of all Nigerians,” it stated.
HAI noted that Nigeria’s strategic role in Africa and its long record of sacrifices in peacekeeping operations across the continent should earn it greater respect and partnership rather than punitive labeling.
“Nigeria has made enormous sacrifices in blood and treasure for African decolonisation, the emancipation of the black race, and peacekeeping operations in Sierra Leone, Liberia, and other parts of the world,” the group said. “We deserve to be treated with respect and accorded our rightful place among the nations.”
The organisation listed several ongoing government initiatives to demonstrate the country’s commitment to fighting terrorism and ensuring national stability.
These include improved inter-agency intelligence sharing, community-based security programmes, the implementation of the National Counter-Terrorism Strategy, and the expansion of the Interfaith Dialogue Platform aimed at fostering religious harmony.
It added that Nigeria has also increased its defence budget and launched several military operations to protect citizens across all regions.
“Contrary to claims that Nigeria has been sitting idle, the government has committed substantial resources and implemented comprehensive initiatives,” the statement read. “Our commitment is shown through action, not rhetoric.”
HAI appealed for global support for Nigeria’s diplomatic engagements with allies such as the US, UK, China, the European Union, the African Union, and ECOWAS, especially in the areas of intelligence sharing, border management, and capacity building.
The group maintained that genuine collaboration, rather than sanctions or threats, remains the most effective path toward defeating terrorism and consolidating democracy in Nigeria.
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
