US Congress Seeks Nigeria Pact Over Christian Killings, Terror Threats
Chukwu Obinna 
ABUJA, Nigeria – The United States Congress calls for a sweeping bilateral agreement with Nigeria to protect Christian communities, dismantle jihadist networks and counter Chinese and Russian influence.
The recommendation emerges from a joint position by the House Appropriations and Foreign Affairs Committees, shared on X on Tuesday by Congressman Riley Moore.
In a statement titled Ending the Persecution of Christians in Nigeria, lawmakers praise Donald Trump for redesignating Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern, describing the move as essential for accountability.
“Nigeria is the deadliest place in the world to be a Christian,” the committees state, citing decades of attacks by armed militias and extremist groups.
Nigeria was first placed on the list in 2020, removed under Joe Biden, and redesignated in October 2025.
Congress alleges that thousands of Christians, including clergy, have been killed, with churches destroyed and communities displaced. Lawmakers also criticise blasphemy laws in parts of northern Nigeria, saying they silence dissent and target minorities.
Trump tasks Moore, Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole, and others with investigating the violence. Delegations visit Nigeria, while hearings gather testimony from officials and civil society.
Earlier this year, Congress recommended visa bans and asset freezes against individuals and groups accused of religious freedom violations.
Lawmakers say sustained diplomatic pressure and a formal bilateral framework are now required to compel Nigerian authorities to protect vulnerable communities.
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Otamere Gladness 
Koko Maxwella 
Oluwafunbi Bello