A group of 31 US lawmakers rallied behind President Donald Trump’s controversial labelling of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” Friday, demanding sweeping sanctions to halt what they termed a “Christian genocide” amid escalating violence in Africa’s most populous nation.
The bipartisan coalition, led by prominent Republicans, hailed Trump’s decision as a “bold and compassionate step” that restores accountability after years of perceived inaction under previous administrations. The move, announced last week, invokes a legal designation under US religious freedom laws, potentially triggering aid restrictions or diplomatic isolation for countries failing to curb severe violations.
Rep. Robert Aderholt, chairman of the House Values Action Team, praised the order as a beacon for “millions” suffering in Nigeria, where jihadist groups and bandits have claimed thousands of lives. “President Trump’s commitment to end the Christian genocide in Nigeria and his decision to designate the country as a CPC gives hope to millions,” Aderholt said. “This persecution of Christians must stop. Terrorist groups in Nigeria have killed thousands of believers annually.”
Echoing the sentiment, Rep. Chris Smith, who chairs the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, accused the Nigerian government of “complicity” in the atrocities. “The reinstatement of Nigeria’s CPC status is a powerful step forward in holding the Nigerian government accountable for its complicity in the unchecked murder, rape, and torture of Christians,” Smith declared.
Trump himself amplified the call on Truth Social, framing the crisis as an “existential threat” to Christianity. “Christianity is facing an existential threat in Nigeria. Thousands of Christians are being killed. Radical Islamists are responsible for this mass slaughter,” he posted. “I am hereby making Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern — that is a legal definition. The United States is able and willing to defend Christians. The killing of Christians is not going to happen.”
The resolution urges the deployment of “every diplomatic and strategic tool” to safeguard Nigerian Christians, including targeted sanctions on officials and entities linked to the violence. House Majority Whip Tom Emmer lauded Trump’s resolve, stating: “God bless President Trump for standing up and protecting Christians around the globe. The United States finally has a leader unafraid to do what’s right.”
Rep. Lisa McClain, a GOP colleague, branded the killings a “moral outrage and a crime against humanity,” while others like Reps. Josh Brecheen, Mary Miller and Andy Biggs pressed for immediate congressional action, including briefings from key figures such as House Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole.
Nigeria’s government swiftly dismissed the allegations, insisting the violence stems from broader insecurity affecting all faiths, not targeted religious persecution. Officials reaffirmed constitutional protections for Christians and Muslims alike, vowing to intensify domestic security efforts without external interference.
The endorsement highlights deepening US-Nigeria tensions over human rights, as Trump’s administration prioritizes religious liberty in foreign policy, potentially straining ties with a key African partner amid ongoing insurgencies by groups like Boko Haram.
