US lawmakers have sharply criticised the Nigerian government for failing to prevent escalating attacks and killings targeting Christians and other vulnerable groups. The remarks came during a joint briefing of the US House Appropriations Committee on Tuesday.
The session examined allegations of systematic persecution across Nigeria, referencing President Donald Trump’s recent designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern. Trump also warned of possible military intervention if the violence continues.
Congressman Chris Smith, chair of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, said Nigerian authorities were failing in their constitutional duty to protect citizens. “The perpetrators of these attacks and persecution continue to act with absolute impunity,” he said, calling for urgent action.
Representative Brian Mast supported the re-designation, urging Washington to increase pressure on Abuja. He called for disarmament of armed groups, restoration of displaced communities, and prosecution of those responsible for the violence.
Riley Moore, Vice Chair of the House Appropriations Legislative Branch Subcommittee, highlighted repeated claims of targeted violence against Christians. He emphasised that the international community could no longer ignore the situation.
Vicky Hartzler, Chair of the US Commission on International Religious Freedom, criticised Nigerian authorities for repeatedly ignoring intelligence that could prevent attacks. She stressed the importance of early-warning systems and timely responses to community alerts. “Too often, communities warn of imminent attacks and plead for protection, yet no help comes. This is unacceptable,” she said.
Lawmakers called for continued US engagement and pressure on Nigerian officials to fulfil their responsibility to safeguard citizens, insisting that urgent and decisive action is needed to prevent further bloodshed.
