Following the designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern,” the United States has said that it will collaborate with the Federal Government to take swift action to safeguard Christians, apprehend those responsible for acts of religious violence, and free hostages.
Vicky Hartzler, the chair of the US Commission on International Religious Freedom, revealed this while applauding President Donald Trump’s decision to blacklist Nigeria as a violator of religious freedom.
In a statement, Hartzler praised Trump for addressing what she called the persecution of Christians in Nigeria.
China, on the other hand, strongly backed Nigeria and denounced what it described as foreign meddling in the nation’s domestic affairs.
In a post on his Truth Social platform on Friday, Trump declared Nigeria to be a Country of Particular Concern, claiming that thousands of Christians had been murdered by radical Islamists and that Christianity in Nigeria is under “existential threat.”
He cautioned that if the Bola Tinubu administration did nothing, the US might take drastic action, including even military intervention.
The Federal Government responded by denouncing the US accusation as factually incorrect and reiterating Nigeria’s commitment to preventing violent extremism, safeguarding people, and advancing inclusivity and religious freedom.
The US Congress is debating a bill that would severely punish state governors, public servants, and non-state actors who enforce the Sharia Penal Code in reaction to Nigeria’s alleged transgressions.
Ted Cruz, a Republican, is the bill’s sponsor. After passing second reading, it has been sent to the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations for additional review.
The proposed law, S. The “Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act of 2025” (2747, issued September 9, 2025) instructs the US Secretary of State to declare Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern, apply particular sanctions, and take other relevant actions.
Additionally, terrorist organizations and individuals that enforce or promote Islamic law in the nation are targeted by the proposed legislation.
Judges, magistrates, jail officials, and other judicial or law enforcement personnel proven to be involved in terrorism, corruption, or the implementation of blasphemy laws would all face punishment under the proposed legislation.
In particular, it covers anyone in charge of bringing charges against, convicting, imprisoning, or otherwise depriving people of their freedom due to accusations of blasphemy.
Vicky Hartzler, the chair of USCIRF, responded to the executive action by saying, “USCIRF applauds President Trump for speaking out on the religious freedom crisis in Nigeria and making Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern.”
In a statement posted on the commission’s website on Monday, she said, “The US Government can now develop a tough plan with Nigeria to ensure that those held hostage are rescued, people of faith are protected, and perpetrators of violence are held to account.”
In an email response on Tuesday, Asif Mahmood, the vice chair of USCIRF, also stated that the commission would make sure the Trump administration takes a number of administrative actions against Nigeria, which it characterized as a chronic offender of religious freedom since 2009.
Nigeria was named a Country of Particular Concern in 2020 and placed on the US State Department’s Special Watch List in 2019 during Trump’s first presidency due to persistent violent attacks against religious communities.
The statement said, “The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom welcomes President Trump’s designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern.” “Since 2009, USCIRF has recommended this designation due to the government’s involvement in and tolerance of systematic, persistent, and egregious violations of religious freedom.”
The statement listed a number of recent events, such as the murder of at least 27 worshippers during an early-morning mosque attack in Katsina State in August and the deaths of at least 200 people, including internally displaced people, at a Catholic mission in Benue State in June.
It went on, “These and other violent incidents targeting religious communities are escalating tensions and threatening Nigerians’ ability to freely express their faith.”
Mahmood pointed out that the Nigerian government must be held responsible for permitting the application of blasphemy laws in 12 states in addition to the violence committed by non-state actors.
He stated, “The CPC designation is justified by enforcing these laws and tolerating violence targeting Christians, Muslims, and other communities.” “Now, in order to encourage necessary change in the nation, the administration can use this opportunity to impose Presidential Actions under the International Religious Freedom Act.”
Mahmood reaffirmed in his email that Nigerian authorities had “repeatedly failed to address ongoing violence targeting religious communities.”
He stated, “In our 2025 Annual Report, which covered the calendar year 2024, we reported on violence targeting religious communities where Nigerian authorities far too often fail to adequately respond.”
He clarified that USCIRF recommends a Country of Particular Concern designation for any government that “engages in or tolerates particularly severe violations of religious freedom” based on international human rights standards, such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, under the International Religious Freedom Act.
Mahmood stated, “Nigeria has met that standard since 2009,” pointing out that 12 state governments still uphold stringent blasphemy laws that are used to arrest Christians, Muslims, and humanists for purported insults to religion.
He continued by saying that the USCIRF had consistently suggested legislative measures that Congress and the US government should use to enhance religious freedom in Nigeria in its annual reports.
“The International Religious Freedom Act gives the US government the authority to carry out several Presidential Actions now that President Trump has designated Nigeria as a CPC,” Mahmood stated. “We urge the administration to take these steps and not to waive them.”
Subscriptions for music streaming
Access to news websites
According to USCIRF’s Annual Report, Nigeria must stop or drastically reduce “systematic, ongoing, and egregious” abuses of religious freedom in order to be removed from its list of Countries of Particular Concern. Mahmood listed the actions Nigeria may take to obtain a reprieve.
He said, “Our recommendation is based on our statutory mandate, facts on the ground, and international human rights law.” “USCIRF continues to monitor and report, and our next CPC recommendations will be included in our 2026 Annual Report, which is due to Congress by May 1st of each year.”
Beijing supports Tinubu
The US action against Nigeria, however, has drawn harsh criticism from the People’s Republic of China, which calls it blatant meddling in the nation’s domestic affairs.
Mao Ning, a spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry, stated during a press briefing in Beijing on Tuesday that China rejected the use of religion or human rights as instruments of political pressure and firmly supported Nigeria in following its own economic path.
“As a comprehensive strategic partner of Nigeria, China firmly supports the Nigerian government in leading its people on a development path that aligns with its national realities,” she said in remarks released by the Chinese Embassy in Abuja.
“We are against any nation meddling in the domestic problems of other countries under the guise of human rights or religion. Additionally, we are against the use of force or the wanton threat of punishment.
Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, stated that President Bola Tinubu was taking proactive measures to guarantee the security of people’s lives and property throughout the nation.
After meeting with the President at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Tuesday, Idris told State House reporters that he discussed the recent remarks made by the US about Nigeria with Tinubu.
He pointed out that in the face of mounting international scrutiny, the President had urged calm and assured Nigerians that his administration is still committed to bolstering national security and fostering unity.
“We always have this regular meeting with Mr. President,” Idris stated. “Of course, the US issue also arose, and we talked about it in great detail.”
He claims that the President is “calm and taking a holistic view of the situation” while attempting to make sure that Nigeria’s continuous efforts to uphold peace and security are better understood by the world community.
Just last week, Mr. President chose a new Chief of Defense Staff and other service chiefs in an effort to revitalize the nation’s security architecture. That indicates that he has been working diligently to guarantee everyone’s safety in Nigeria,” Idris continued.
He clarified that in order to make Nigeria’s position clear, the government was purposefully maintaining a measured diplomatic tone while increasing contact with foreign partners.
He stated, “We are opening channels of communication so that the international community understands what Nigeria has been doing and intends to do to address any domestic or international concerns.”
Idris said Tinubu had taken a multifaceted approach in response to calls for more extensive interaction with religious and community groups.
“We’re still having conversations with religious leaders,” he said. “Mr. President has visited and will continue to meet with them. They play a significant role in the Nigerian initiative.
In order to combat what he referred to as “false narratives” regarding Nigeria’s religious climate, the minister further stated that Tinubu will continue regional and continental engagements.
“It is completely untrue to say that we are a nation that is intolerant of religion,” Idris said. “Freedom of religion is guaranteed by our Constitution, and Muslims, Christians, and even people of no faith call Nigeria home. Mr. President will strictly adhere to that.
Idris urged people to oppose such misinformation, blaming extremist groups for promoting divisive narratives meant to depict the nation badly.
“Yes, we have security issues, but the government has never chosen to support one religion over another or commit acts of violence in the name of religion,” he stated. This is a time to consider our togetherness and unite; it is not a time for politics, divisiveness, or rhetoric, but rather for nation-building.
He reiterated that President Tinubu has instructed pertinent authorities to address the problems “with all the responsibility and depth they require” and is “taking the situation very seriously.”
“We think we will emerge from this stronger in the end,” Idris said.
EU and ECOWAS respond
Claims that the current spike in terrorist attacks throughout the area, particularly Nigeria, amounted to genocide have been rejected by the Economic Community of West African States.
The regional organization stressed that the violence cannot be categorized as genocide against any specific religious group and said in a statement on Tuesday that the atrocities target individuals of all religions and backgrounds.
ECOWAS called on the UN and other international partners to keep helping member nations combat violent extremism.
The statement stated, “Terrorist-related violence does not discriminate on the basis of gender, religion, ethnicity, or age, as independent reports have confirmed over the years.”
“ECOWAS urges the UN and all its allies to assist member nations in their battle against these organizations and to dismiss as untrue any allegations that these terrorist organizations target a particular community or that a particular religious group is being genocided in the area.
“ECOWAS vehemently denounces these dangerous and false claims that aim to erode social cohesion in the region and increase community insecurity.”
The bloc reaffirmed its commitment to regional peace and unity and emphasized that fighting terrorism necessitates a coordinated response based on solidarity and facts rather than polarizing or deceptive narratives.
The statement ended, “ECOWAS calls on the entire world to stand by the countries in the region in their fight against terrorism that targets all communities.”
In a similar development, the European Union has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding religious freedom and encouraging harmonious cohabitation in Nigeria.
During a news conference on Monday, Anouar El Anouni, the spokesperson for EU Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, said this. Modestus Chukwulaka, the EU’s press officer, shared his remarks with media in Abuja on Tuesday.
The US administration’s remarks about Nigeria have been noted by the EU. El Anouni stated, “The EU reaffirms its commitment to freedom of religion and belief and to the protection of all communities, especially minorities.”
“We emphasize our dedication to the peaceful cohabitation of Nigerians, irrespective of geographic, ethnic, political, or religious distinctions.”
The EU acknowledged the US stance but advised against blaming religion alone for Nigeria’s violence.
“We acknowledge the numerous causes of the violence in Nigeria. He continued, “Let’s remember that religion is just one of these factors—and only in specific situations.”
The EU stated that it is still collaborating with Nigerian authorities to support victims of violence and displacement and to bolster peacebuilding initiatives.
El Anouni stated, “The European Union works with the capable Nigerian authorities and implements multifaceted support in Nigeria to prevent violence, consolidate peace, and assist victims of violence and forced displacement.”
US military installation
Lt. Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazau (retd.), a former Chief of Army Staff and former Minister of Interior, claimed that the US may be looking to build a military facility in Nigeria under the guise of defending Christians against persecution.
Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday at a gathering hosted by the Just Friends Club of Nigeria, Dambazau claimed that recent claims made by certain American politicians and religious authorities regarding “Christian genocide” in Nigeria might be connected to outside agendas.
“Both domestic and foreign actors have intensified religious tensions, sometimes leading to the misrepresentation of security incidents as targeting particular faith groups,” he stated.
Dambazau questioned the motivation, pointing out that the Niger Republic continues to experience extreme insecurity even after housing two US military installations for more than ten years.
What steps did the United States take to stop the spread of terrorism during its more than ten-year stay in Niger? He stated, “I believe the US is searching for a chance to set up an alternate base in Nigeria.”
The former general contended that terrorism in Nigeria is a part of a larger regional challenge in the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin and impacts both Muslims and Christians.
He cited the Abuja–Kaduna train attack and the Kuje prison break as examples of how Nigeria’s inadequate security capabilities had made matters worse.
In order to prevent attacks, communities in Zamfara and Katsina have even made agreements with bandits. People increasingly rely on criminals for protection,” he added.
Dambazau encouraged the government to foster unity and fortify security institutions, cautioning that foreign interests may take advantage of Nigeria’s internal divides.
He declared, “We must not allow external actors to manipulate our differences for their own interests.”
Leaders in the Middle Belt
Amid mounting concerns over a possible diplomatic face-off, leaders of the Southern and Middle Belt Forum termed the development as a “wake-up call” for the Federal Government to swiftly tackle insecurity and the recurrent killings across the country.
In a communiqué issued after its National Caucus meeting on Saturday, November 1, 2025, in Abuja — and signed by spokesman Luka Binniyat, alongside Oba Oladipo Olaitan (Afenifere), Dr. Bitrus Pogu (Middle Belt Forum), Senator John Azuta-Mbata (Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide), and Ambassador Godknows Igali (PANDEF) — the forum outlined its stance on insecurity, justice, national unity, and the 2027 elections.
The statement said, “The SMBLF notes with very serious concern the designation by US President Donald Trump of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern over alleged persecution against Christians.”
“But we see this as a wake-up call to the Federal Government to pursue, with urgency and responsibility, the cessation of ongoing mayhem and killings.”
In addition to restoring “occupied lands to their rightful owners” throughout Benue, Plateau, Southern Kaduna, Taraba, Gombe, Southern Borno, and other impacted states, the forum called on the government to disarm and prosecute terrorists, killer herdsmen, and armed militias.
In order to guarantee inclusivity and balance in national security management, the group urged President Bola Tinubu to extend reforms to the positions of National Security Adviser, Minister of Defense, and Minister of State for Defense, even as they welcomed recent changes in the military hierarchy.
Additionally, the SMBLF reiterated calls for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, claiming that doing so would promote national peace and reconciliation.
Alhaji Attahiru Bafarawa, a former governor of Sokoto State, advised President Tinubu to pursue diplomatic relations rather than conflict with Washington.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Bafarawa stated, “I advise President Tinubu to avoid confrontation and reach out to the American government to present Nigeria’s side of the story.”
“In international politics and diplomacy, the United States and Nigeria are strategic allies. Therefore, Nigeria will benefit from strengthening this long-standing partnership.
In a related response, the Yoruba Ronu Group, a sociopolitical organization, called Trump’s accusations that Nigeria is “killing Christians” “false and dangerously provocative” in a statement released in Abuja and signed by Diran Iyantan, the group’s chairman.
Iyantan cautioned, “Trump’s combative tone is incitement, not diplomacy.” Such careless language insults our sovereignty, undermines our military progress, and gives terrorists more confidence. From Libya to Afghanistan, every American intervention has resulted in devastation and mayhem. They won’t try Nigeria again.
The Federal Government’s failure to appoint ambassadors during the crisis was also criticized by the National Civil Society Council of Nigeria, which called it “unhealthy and unthinkable.”
“The government must handle the allegations of Christian genocide with professionalism and diplomacy, confronting the matter with verifiable facts and figures,” the council stated in a communiqué signed by Oscar Kalu, chairman of the committee that drafted it.
Similarly, a former Kwara State House of Assembly Commission member and APC chieftain, Kehinde Bankole, cautioned Trump against making inflammatory remarks that could distract Nigeria’s leadership.
“Every nation’s right to determine its political, social, economic, and cultural systems without external interference is affirmed by Article 2(1), (4), and (7) of the UN Charter,” stated Bankole.
