David Lidington was responding to a question from Christian MP Mark Pritchard in Parliament about the suffering of believers at the hands of Boko Haram terrorists and the harsh Iranian government.
Mr Pritchard asked what the government had done so far in response to the rise of the Islamist group.
The minister said: "Boko Haram are attempting to challenge Nigeria's secular state and democratic constitution by attacking all Nigerians who do not follow their extremist and intolerant views.
"Their activities, which do not command widespread support, have caused immense suffering in both Muslim and Christian communities.
"We are committed to playing our part in helping Nigeria combat these extremists."
He was also asked about the treatment of Christians in Iran.
"We are disappointed that comments made by President Rouhani in 2013 in support of the rights of religious minorities have not brought any change in his government's approach over the past year," he said.
"Christians, although recognised under Iranian law, have continued to be persecuted.
"Evangelical Christians, Iranian converts to Christianity and those involved in house churches have found themselves particularly singled out for harassment and arrest.
"The UK has repeatedly called on the Iranian government to end all persecution of individuals on the basis of their faith, and to guarantee the human rights of all Iranians."