United States lawmakers have urged President Donald Trump to maintain visa sanctions on individuals accused of violence against Christians in Nigeria and consider blocking beef exports linked to armed herders. The recommendations are contained in a joint report from the House Appropriations and Foreign Affairs Committees following a comprehensive investigation into alleged persecution of Christians in Nigeria.
The report describes Nigeria as “the most dangerous place in the world to practice the Christian faith,” with jihadist networks exploiting weak enforcement. Recommendations include striking a bilateral agreement for US technical support to eliminate militia violence, counter Chinese illegal mining operations, and develop ranching plans.
Lawmakers also propose withholding additional funding to Nigeria until action is taken, continued visa sanctions on perpetrators, and halting beef exports to markets in Ivory Coast, Ghana, South Africa, and Senegal to compel herders to disarm. The report also calls for repeal of Sharia and anti-blasphemy laws.
Key Points:
The recommendations could escalate US pressure on Nigeria over religious freedom.
Beef export ban would impact Nigeria’s livestock trade in West Africa.
Sanctioned individuals and groups face continued restrictions, while US ties tested.
This signals intensified congressional focus on Nigeria’s security and religious issues.
The timing, with presidential action pending, keeps pressure on administration.
US lawmakers urge Trump to maintain Nigeria visa sanctions, block beef exports over Christian persecution claims, citing jihadist violence and militia impunity.
Sources: The Cable, US House Appropriations and Foreign Affairs Committees