Bishop Gerald Mamman Musa of the Catholic Diocese of Katsina has said that Nigeria’s worsening insecurity cannot be separated from religious motives, even though other factors also play major roles.
Speaking on the sidelines of the 2025 World Mission Sunday, Bishop Musa said recent attacks, kidnappings, and killings across the country reflect multiple drivers including crime, land disputes, and extremism, but “it would be wrong to deny that some of the killings are based on religious motives.”
The bishop identified extremist groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) as examples of armed movements pushing for a mono-religious state through terror. He stressed that both Christians and Muslims have suffered from these attacks, though statistics show Christians in the North Central zone are often the worst affected.
Reacting to U.S. Senator Ted Cruz’s call for Nigeria to be re-listed as a “Country of Particular Concern,” Bishop Musa said such measures may pressure authorities to act. “Sometimes external pressure makes leaders sit up,” he said, adding that internal reforms remain the best path to restoring peace.
The prelate faulted government handling of rural security and urged more protection for displaced persons. He called on Catholics to remain hopeful and compassionate, saying, “We stand with all who suffer — Muslims, Christians, and every ethnic group. Even in the darkest nights, the dawn comes. We must be that dawn for others.”
Bishop Musa appealed to Nigerians to continue praying for peace and holding leaders accountable, insisting that genuine peace will only come through truth, justice, and responsibility.
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