The United States government, under President Donald Trump, has introduced new visa restrictions targeting individuals accused of financing or supporting attacks described as genocide against Christians in Nigeria.
US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, announced the policy on Wednesday via his official X handle, stressing that Washington is taking a firm stand against global religious persecution.
Rubio stated that the restrictions would apply to anyone, including government officials who “knowingly direct, authorize, fund, support, or carry out violations of religious freedom.” He added that the measure affects Nigeria as well as other countries or individuals implicated in attacks on Christian communities.
“The United States is taking decisive action in response to the atrocities and violence against Christians in Nigeria and around the world,” Rubio wrote. “This visa policy applies to Nigeria and other governments or individuals that persecute people for their religious beliefs.”
However, the Nigerian government has pushed back against the claims of genocide. Officials insist that the nation’s insecurity challenges cut across religious lines and affect both Christians and Muslims.
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