THE United States Congress has proposed a series of measures aimed at addressing what lawmakers described as the “persecution of Christians” in Nigeria.
The recommendations were submitted to the White House following President Donald Trump’s redesignation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern.
In a report released by committee chairman Riley Moore, the House Committees on Appropriations and Foreign Affairs outlined several steps to improve security, protect religious freedom, and curb violence by armed groups, particularly Fulani militias, in Nigeria’s Middle Belt.
Key proposals include blocking Nigerian beef exports to encourage the disarmament of Fulani herdsmen, continuing visa restrictions on individuals linked to religious violence, and implementing sanctions against perpetrators of attacks on Christians.
The report also recommends enhanced security and counter-terrorism cooperation, technical support for demobilisation and reintegration programs, and efforts to counter foreign influences, including Chinese mining operations allegedly funding militias.
Other recommendations involve strengthening diplomatic staffing, reforming Sharia-based and anti-blasphemy laws, improving oversight of U.S. aid, and collaborating with international partners such as France, Hungary, and the United Kingdom to address humanitarian and security concerns.
Lawmakers also urged a bilateral agreement with Nigeria to protect vulnerable communities, enhance economic cooperation, and counter regional adversaries.
The report reflects a comprehensive approach combining sanctions, diplomacy, and security assistance to address sectarian violence and promote religious freedom in Nigeria.
