On March 15, 2024, the United States Congress held a roundtable discussion to investigate allegations of religious persecution in Nigeria, particularly concerning the targeting of Christians. This inquiry follows a directive from President Donald Trump on October 31, 2023, instructing the House Appropriations Committee to examine the violence against Christians in the country, which he described as a “slaughter.”
Lawmakers Emphasize Urgency of Action
The roundtable featured prominent members of Congress, including Mario Díaz-Balart, Vice Chair of the House Appropriations Committee, and Robert Aderholt, Chair of the National Security Subcommittee. Riley Moore, Chair of the Health and Human Services Subcommittee, also participated in the discussions. They expressed a shared concern over the rising violence and the alleged targeted attacks against Christians in Nigeria.
In his opening remarks, Díaz-Balart stressed the importance of religious liberty, stating, “No one should live in fear because of how they worship. Defending religious liberty worldwide is both a moral duty and a vital American interest.” He highlighted ongoing legislative efforts to enhance protections for individuals facing persecution, noting that these measures would be included in his fiscal year 2026 funding bill.
Aderholt underscored the necessity of addressing the crisis, asserting that the situation in Nigeria represents a severe humanitarian issue that demands immediate attention. He stated, “We must stand firmly with Nigeria’s Christian communities and all persecuted believers worldwide.”
Detailed Accounts of Violence and Persecution
During the session, Congressman Riley Moore highlighted alarming accounts of violence, claiming that Christians in Nigeria face persecution and violence simply for their faith. “That’s why President Trump designated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern,” he remarked, emphasizing the need for comprehensive investigation into the ongoing crisis.
Chairman Brian Mast characterized the violence in Nigeria as a deliberate campaign of religious cleansing, pointing to groups like Boko Haram and radicalized Fulani militants as primary perpetrators. He stated, “Whether it is Boko Haram or the Islamic State West Africa Province, the objective is to drive Christians out of their ancestral lands.”
Congressman Chris Smith further elaborated on the dangers faced by Christians and moderate Muslims in Nigeria, noting that they live under constant threats of violence. He emphasized the need for the Nigerian government to uphold its constitutional obligation to protect all citizens.
“The most brutal and murderous anti-Christian persecution in the world occurs in Nigeria, the ground zero of religious violence,” Smith said.
Experts also provided testimony regarding the ongoing violence. Vicky Hartzler, Chair of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, shared recent incidents of abduction and violence, illustrating the severe threat to religious freedom in Nigeria. She cited a recent attack on a Catholic school where 303 children and 12 teachers were abducted.
Furthermore, Sean Nelson, Senior Counsel for the Alliance Defending Freedom International, detailed firsthand accounts from Nigerian Christians describing systemic violence and government inaction. He pointed out that the Nigerian government often dismisses the religious motivations behind these attacks, which undermines efforts to provide adequate protection for vulnerable communities.
According to Nelson, the lack of law enforcement response during attacks has left many Christians defenseless against armed militants. He highlighted the troubling enforcement of blasphemy laws in northern Nigeria, which can lead to severe consequences for those accused.
Strategic Recommendations and Future Actions
Ebenezer Obadare, a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, discussed the root causes of the violence, attributing it primarily to the unchecked terror of groups like Boko Haram. He urged for a strategic approach that includes international pressure on the Nigerian government to take decisive action against these extremist groups.
Obadare emphasized the need for the U.S. to leverage its influence to encourage Nigeria to dismantle oppressive Sharia laws in northern states and to strengthen its military capabilities against terrorist threats.
The House Appropriations Committee concluded the session by affirming its commitment to working closely with the Trump administration to combat religious persecution globally. Lawmakers announced plans to compile a comprehensive report detailing their findings and recommended actions to present to President Trump.
As the investigation into the violence against Christians in Nigeria continues, the urgency for concerted action remains paramount among U.S. lawmakers, as they seek to address this pressing humanitarian crisis.
