The United States has announced it will restrict visas for Nigerians it believes are responsible for what it calls “anti-Christian violence.”
Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the move targets anyone involved in attacks against Christians, including their families. He specifically mentioned radical Islamic terrorists, Fulani militias, and other violent actors operating in Nigeria and beyond.
“This policy will also apply to governments or individuals engaged in violations of religious freedom,” Rubio added.
The announcement comes weeks after former President Donald Trump threatened military action in Nigeria, calling the country a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged persecution of Christians by radical Islamist groups.
Nigeria has consistently denied these claims, saying the attacks are driven by criminal motives, land disputes, and resource competition, rather than religion. Human rights experts note that more Muslims have been killed by the Boko Haram insurgency than Christians.
With a population of about 220 million, split almost equally between Christians and Muslims, Nigeria faces insecurity on multiple fronts: Boko Haram attacks, clashes between pastoralists and farmers, and increasing kidnappings by armed gangs in central regions.
The new US visa restrictions aim to hold individuals accountable for violent acts and human rights violations, though officials caution that broader solutions are needed to address Nigeria’s complex security challenges.
