Kate Osamor MP — To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what representations officials in her Department have received from (a) organisations and (b) representatives of the Nigerian diaspora in the UK on the frequency of attacks taking place across Nigeria and potential solutions to bring about peace in the region.

Vicky Ford MP — Increasing insecurity across Nigeria is having a devastating impact on affected communities. We welcome views from both organisations and representatives of the Nigerian diaspora in the UK, including on peace-building efforts in Nigeria and the wider region. I [Minister Ford] regularly respond to correspondence from MPs on behalf of constituents who are members of the diaspora, and my officials regularly respond to letters sent directly by members of the diaspora or diaspora organisations.

The principal causes of violence across Nigeria are complex and include violent extremism in the North East, and criminality and competition over resources elsewhere in Nigeria. At the first dialogue of our Security and Defence Partnership in February, the UK and Nigerian Governments committed to work together to respond to rising insecurity across Nigeria and promote human rights. We will continue to encourage the Nigerian Government to take urgent action to implement long-term solutions that address the root causes of violence.

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