Germany has reaffirmed its support for Nigeria in addressing insecurity, with a call for stronger action to curb cross-border incursions fueling insurgency and terrorism.
Thomas Rachel, Germany’s Government Commissioner for Freedom of Religion or Belief, made the call at a news conference on Wednesday in Abuja.
Rachel, who arrived in Nigeria on April 25, said he had held consultations with government officials, parliamentarians, traditional rulers, civil society groups, and community members.
READ ALSO: Insecurity: Nigeria, Israel Sign Joint Communiqué to Boost Intelligence
He said the engagements were aimed at understanding local realities, promoting interfaith harmony, and identifying practical solutions to insecurity.
According to him, Nigeria remains a key global partner for Germany, given its status as Africa’s most populous country and its strategic role as a democratic and regional leader.
Rachel said both Christian and Muslim communities had suffered casualties in violent attacks, stressing the need for a multi-layered response.
“Communities that have lived together peacefully for years are now experiencing conflict, partly due to the involvement of external elements,” he said.
The German official, who visited Benue State, referenced incidents reported by local communities, underscoring the need to address both criminality and the misuse of religion in driving violence.
Rachel emphasised that resolving the crime would require tailored approaches, including improving livelihoods, supporting internally displaced persons, and strengthening community resilience.
He called on religious leaders to promote shared values that uphold the sanctity of human life, noting that both Islam and Christianity reject violence.
According to him, political and community leaders must also foster inclusive governance and mutual respect among diverse groups.
“Peace is fundamental to sustainable development, and this applies to all countries facing similar challenges,” he said.
Rachel reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to supporting Nigeria through political and economic cooperation, as well as multilateral partnerships.
He stressed that Germany’s support would remain non-military, focusing on collaboration, dialogue, and capacity-building.
“Nigeria is a strong country with experienced institutions and must chart its own path. Germany stands ready to support as a reliable partner,” he said.
