The United States is getting ready to implement various enforcement actions against Nigeria after it was classified as a “country of particular concern” due to accusations of Christian persecution.
This could involve economic sanctions, limitations on development aid, and military actions, as noted by lawmakers leading the congressional inquiry.
According to one congressman, “That designation the President just did at a country of particular concern unlocks 15 different levers that the President can use against that country,” which include sanctions, withholding development funds, restricting loans from international organizations, and military action.
Congressman Riley Moore, appointed by President Trump along with Congressman Tom Cole to investigate the situation, explained that this new classification provides 15 enforcement options for the administration.
Key measures under consideration include economic sanctions on Nigeria, cutting development aid, limiting access to international financing, and even potential military actions.
The House Appropriations Committee has initiated a formal investigation into the issue of religious persecution in Nigeria, collaborating with the House Foreign Affairs Committee, congressional leadership, the State Department, and White House officials.
Moore stated that the findings will be reported to President Trump as soon as possible.
The congressman challenged Nigerian President Bola Tinubu’s claims that his administration opposes religious persecution, labeling those assertions as “completely false.”
He pointed to a case of an individual sentenced to death for defending himself against a Fulani Muslim militant as proof of ongoing persecution.
While acknowledging that Muslims have also suffered violence, particularly from groups like Boko Haram, Moore emphasized that data shows Christians in Nigeria are disproportionately affected, facing violence at a rate of five to one compared to other religious minorities.
Moore defended U.S. involvement, highlighting that the country is “a Christian nation” committed to safeguarding persecuted communities.
The Trump administration has prioritized the protection of Christians abroad, with President Trump urging Nigeria to enhance efforts to protect its Christian population
