U.S. House Committees Urge Action on Religious Persecution in Nigeria

U.S. House committees investigating the alleged persecution of Christians in Nigeria have formally submitted their findings to President Donald Trump. The report proposes a roadmap for curbing religious violence, enforcing accountability, and bolstering security cooperation between Washington and Abuja.

The inquiry was ignited by Trump’s decision to redesignate Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) due to reports of rampant religious violence. His assertion that a genocide against Christians is occurring—a claim the Nigerian government has consistently denied—has intensified scrutiny of the situation.

Congressmen Riley Moore and Tom Cole, who spearheaded the investigation, stated that the report reflects months of expert testimony, consultations with religious leaders, and two bipartisan fact-finding missions to Nigeria. “We have gathered significant evidence showing the extent of religious violence and persecution faced by Christian communities in Nigeria,” Moore emphasized.

Key recommendations outlined in the report include:

• A bilateral security agreement aimed at protecting vulnerable communities.
• Dismantling extremist networks that fuel violence.
• Enhanced measures for religious freedom advocacy in international relations.

The bipartisan effort also highlighted the urgency of establishing a framework for accountability to ensure perpetrators of violence are brought to justice. Cole noted, “It is imperative that the United States takes a stand to support the fundamental human rights of religious minorities.”

Experts warn that without immediate intervention, the cycle of violence is likely to persist. In recent years, thousands of Christians have been displaced from their homes due to ongoing attacks by militant groups and sectarian violence. The report calls for increased international cooperation to address these challenges and provide humanitarian aid to affected communities.

The American government’s intensified focus on Nigeria’s religious persecution resonates with larger geopolitical interests, as the country is Africa’s most populous and a key ally in the fight against terrorism. Addressing religious violence not only aims to protect human rights but also stabilizes a region crucial to U.S. foreign policy goals.

As the Trump administration reviews the report, it remains unclear how swiftly and effectively it will navigate the complex landscape of international relations and human rights advocacy. The findings, however, set a significant precedent for future U.S. actions regarding religious freedom globally.

With the pressure mounting on the Nigerian government, the recommendations from the U.S. Congress could spark essential dialogues and actions toward a more secure and equitable environment for all religious communities in Nigeria.

As the situation continues to evolve, stakeholders hope that robust discussions and actions stem from this report, ultimately leading to a safer future for religious minorities in Nigeria.

By Omer Aden
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.