The United States government, under President Donald Trump, has officially listed Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) for alleged violations of religious freedom, citing persistent attacks on Christians and other religious minorities across the country. Announced on October 31, 2025, the designation under the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998 does not immediately impose sanctions but opens the door for possible punitive measures, including restrictions on aid, trade, and visas, if Nigeria fails to take concrete action.
The move marks the second time in five years that Nigeria has been placed on the CPC list. Human rights organizations and U.S. officials pointed to escalating violence by extremist groups such as Boko Haram, ISWAP, and armed militias in northern and central Nigeria, targeting churches, clergy, and Christian communities, leaving thousands dead and displacing many more. According to the U.S., the Nigerian government has not done enough to protect its citizens or hold perpetrators accountable, with reports also citing forced conversions, destruction of places of worship, and discriminatory practices against religious minorities.
In addition to the CPC designation, the Trump administration recently tightened visa rules for Nigerian citizens, limiting most non-diplomatic visas to single-entry and three-month validity, affecting students, professionals, and tourists. Officials said the restrictions followed Nigeria’s refusal to accept deported individuals and concerns over documentation fraud.
The announcement has stirred diplomatic tension. Nigerian officials expressed concern and promised “constructive engagement” to clarify the country’s position. A senior source said, “Nigeria rejects any attempt to paint it as a nation that promotes or tolerates religious persecution. We have consistently taken steps to protect all citizens, regardless of faith,” citing military operations against insurgents and government programs promoting interfaith dialogue.
The designation has also drawn mixed reactions from civil society and faith-based organizations. Some see it as a necessary warning for Nigeria to strengthen protections for religious minorities, while others criticize the U.S. for politicizing internal security challenges. Reverend Samson Ayokunle, former president of the Christian Association of Nigeria, said, “The CPC label is serious—it signals to the world that Nigeria must do more to protect vulnerable groups. But we also need to be careful that this does not become a tool for foreign interference.”
Analysts warn that even without immediate sanctions, the classification could impact Nigeria’s image abroad, foreign investment, and international partnerships. “This is a reminder that governance, security, and human rights are deeply connected in global politics,” said Dr. Hadiza Gambo, an international relations expert at the University of Abuja.
The latest move underscores a recurring tension in U.S.–Nigeria relations. During Trump’s first term, Washington criticized Nigeria for failing to control sectarian violence and accused the government of ignoring mass killings by armed herdsmen. As the Trump administration continues its hardline stance, many observers believe this designation could define the next phase of diplomacy, testing Nigeria’s ability to navigate global scrutiny while managing its internal security and religious diversity.
For now, both countries face pressure to address these issues, with the world watching closely as Nigeria seeks to defend its sovereignty while responding to serious human rights concerns abroad.
( @realDonaldTrump - Truth Social Post )
— Donald J Trump Posts TruthSocial (@TruthTrumpPost) October 31, 2025
( Donald J. Trump - Oct 31, 2025, 2:09 PM ET )
Christianity is facing an existential threat in Nigeria. Thousands of Christians are being killed. Radical Islamists are responsible for this mass slaughter. I am he… pic.twitter.com/ghkIpOwIof
