Trump Designates Nigeria as Country of Concern Over Christian Persecution
President Donald Trump has officially labeled Nigeria a “country of particular concern” due to ongoing genocide against Christians carried out by Islamic extremists. He urged the House Appropriations Committee to “immediately investigate this matter,” emphasizing that the United States “cannot stand idly by” while such atrocities continue.
This announcement was made public on Truth Social and follows recent reports concerning violence against Christians in Nigeria. Representative Riley Moore (R-West Virginia) has also called for immediate action from the government to address what he described as the systematic persecution and genocide of Christians in Nigeria.
“Christianity is facing an existential crisis in Nigeria,” Trump stated. “Thousands are being killed by Islamic extremists. I am designating Nigeria as a ‘Country of Special Concern.’ This isn’t just a trivial matter. We must take action against these killings and ensure the U.S. stands ready to support Christians globally.”
In a letter addressed to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Congressman Moore detailed alarming statistics, stating that over 7,000 Christians have been killed in 2025 alone, along with hundreds more who have faced kidnapping, torture, or displacement due to groups like Boko Haram.
Moore highlighted the destruction of approximately 19,100 churches since 2009 as further evidence of the violence. He expressed that “America cannot stand idly by” while its citizens suffer and insisted that recognizing the religious nature of this violence is essential. He urged for Nigeria’s designation as a country of particular concern to be expedited.
In a recent interview, Moore accused the Nigerian government of complicity in these attacks, especially in northern regions. He cited a shocking estimate of between 50,000 and 100,000 Christians killed, a figure that he feels is underreported.
Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has dismissed allegations of genocide against Christians, asserting that claims of persecution are unfounded. Last month he stated, “There is no religious persecution in Nigeria; it’s a falsehood.” Following concerns raised by Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Tinubu’s spokesperson accused him of spreading misinformation and maintained that religious harmony exists in Nigeria.
Moore, in response, condemned this view, describing the government’s lack of response as “shameful silence.” He stressed the ongoing persecution and called for recognition of the realities faced by Christians at the hands of Islamic extremists, particularly pointing to Boko Haram’s long history of violence.
Further, Moore noted that beyond Boko Haram, groups affiliated with ISIS contribute to the violence. He included the Nigerian government in his assessment of those responsible for the ongoing suffering.
With his designation of Nigeria as a country of special concern, Trump indicated that this could lead to sanctions, albeit these measures may not be immediate or absolute. They represent a significant step toward addressing the humanitarian crisis.
Moore expressed gratitude to Trump for the action taken, recognizing him as a champion for Christians worldwide and expressing hopes for collaborative efforts to protect those suffering in Nigeria.
Senator Cruz echoed this sentiment, regarding it as an essential move toward holding Nigerian authorities accountable and prompting necessary behavioral changes in the country. He pledged to pursue legislative measures targeting individuals enforcing oppressive laws in Nigeria.
