US Targets Nigerians Over Religious-Freedom Violations
By Shalom Ikuvbogie
The United States has introduced new visa restrictions on Nigerians accused of contributing to rising attacks tied to religious freedom abuses, widening pressure on the country as concerns grow over violence affecting Christian communities.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the move on X on Wednesday, explaining that the restrictions would apply to anyone found to have directed, financed, supported or carried out actions that undermine religious freedom. His statement followed a roundtable in Washington where lawmakers and foreign policy experts reviewed worsening violence in Nigeria and what they described as targeted attacks on Christians.
Rubio said the measure was part of Washington’s broader response to what it considers serious violations of religious rights in Nigeria and other countries. “The United States is taking decisive action in response to the atrocities and violence against Christians in Nigeria and around the world,” he wrote, adding that those involved in such abuses would not be eligible for US visas.
The roundtable was convened as part of an ongoing inquiry ordered by President Donald Trump. Last month, Chris Smith, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, proposed a resolution urging visa bans and asset freezes against individuals and groups implicated in severe religious-freedom violations in Nigeria.
During Tuesday’s meeting, Smith identified the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) and the Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore as organisations that should face scrutiny. He also pushed for “Fulani-Ethnic Militias” operating in Benue and Plateau States to be listed as entities of particular concern under the International Religious Freedom Act.
MACBAN, reacting to earlier recommendations, urged the US Congress to withdraw the proposal, arguing that it failed to distinguish between criminal gangs and peaceful pastoralists who are themselves exposed to insecurity.
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At the session, Smith accused the Nigerian government of failing to act decisively, suggesting that its inaction had contributed to what he described as religious persecution in parts of the country.
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