The United States House Committees on Appropriations and Foreign Affairs have formally presented a report to the White House detailing their findings on the alleged persecution of Christians in Nigeria.
The report was submitted on Monday following a directive by President Donald Trump, who recently redesignated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern. Trump had tasked Congressman Riley Moore and Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole with leading a comprehensive investigation into attacks on Christian communities and broader security challenges in Nigeria.
Moore confirmed the submission in a post on his X handle, @RepRileyMoore, stating that the report followed months of investigations and consultations.
As part of the probe, Moore led a bipartisan congressional delegation to Nigeria, where members visited Internally Displaced Persons camps in Benue State, met victims of terrorism, and held discussions with top government officials, including the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
According to Moore, the report was compiled from expert testimonies, congressional hearings, roundtable discussions, and on-the-ground assessments conducted in collaboration with the Trump administration.
He said the findings provide a clearer understanding of the security threats in Nigeria and the challenges faced by Christian communities. Moore urged the Nigerian government to strengthen its relationship with the United States, noting that enhanced cooperation would serve the interests of both countries.
The report outlines measures aimed at promoting accountability and tackling extremist violence. Recommendations include establishing a bilateral US–Nigeria security agreement to protect vulnerable communities and dismantle jihadist networks; withholding certain US funds until measurable steps are taken to curb violence; imposing sanctions and visa restrictions on individuals linked to religious persecution; and offering technical assistance to address violence attributed to armed groups, including Fulani militias.
It also calls for the repeal of Sharia and blasphemy laws and proposes collaboration with international partners such as France, Hungary, and the United Kingdom.
Moore commended President Trump for redesignating Nigeria as a CPC and for prioritising efforts to address religious persecution and insecurity in the region. He also acknowledged the roles played by other lawmakers involved in the investigation.
Reflecting on his visit to Nigeria, Moore said he witnessed firsthand the impact of violence on affected communities and stressed the need for sustained action to restore stability and protect all citizens.
Advertisement
