The State Department spokesman on Tuesday released a statement exclusive to Newsmax on widespread anti-Christian violence in Nigeria.

“The United States remains deeply concerned about the levels of violence in Nigeria, including the threats posted by terrorist groups like Boko Haram and ISIS-West Africa in northern Nigeria, and in the impact that violence has on all communities,” the spokesman said. “Violent extremist groups target a wide range of civilians and military targets as part of their broader campaign against a secular state.”

For months, reports of anti-Christian violence have come from Nigeria and signs are strong that attacks are on the rise. A Roman Catholic priest, Rev. Alphonsus Afin, was kidnapped by Islamic extremist group Boko Haram in Nigeria’s Borno state on June 1, according to U.S. News and World Report.

Read more at Newsmax© 2025 Newsmax. All rights reserved.