Fatimah Otunsanya
The European Union has reaffirmed its respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty, distancing itself from external pressures while pledging continued collaboration with the country in peacebuilding, interfaith dialogue, and human rights protection.
EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, stated this on Tuesday in Lagos during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, where he clarified the bloc’s position following US President Donald Trump’s recent remarks on Nigeria.
Mignot stressed that the EU’s stance is guided by its long-standing partnership with Nigeria rather than the views of other nations.
“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.
According to him, the EU is ready to enhance its support in peace, security and defence matters, as well as through dialogue with all stakeholders, including civil society organisations and traditional and religious leaders.
Mignot said the EU would continue to implement several peacebuilding initiatives across the country to promote peaceful coexistence.
We also support programmes on deradicalisation, demobilisation and reintegration of ex-members of non-state armed groups in the North-East,” he said.
He said the EU would remain committed to the protection of all communities, especially the minorities, with the freedom of religion and belief.
Mignot acknowledged that while Nigeria faces challenges in human rights and freedom of religion, its legal and institutional framework provides for fundamental freedoms.
“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.
The ambassador stressed that the EU works closely with civil society organisations on projects promoting interfaith dialogue and good relations among religious communities.
He noted that the EU’s support is non-discriminatory, covering all victims of violence irrespective of the motives.