U.S. Lawmakers Introduce Bill Addressing Violence and Persecution in Nigeria

U.S. lawmakers have introduced a new bill aimed at tackling ongoing religious violence and human rights abuses in Nigeria. The proposed legislation, called the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026, would require the U.S. government to report on efforts to protect vulnerable communities and counter persecution in the country.

The bill targets attacks against religious minorities, particularly in Nigeria’s Middle Belt and northern regions, where armed groups and ethnic militias have been linked to widespread violence that has displaced many and caused numerous deaths. Lawmakers supporting the bill want increased transparency on U.S. efforts to promote religious freedom and hold perpetrators accountable.

Under the legislation, the U.S. could take measures such as listing certain militias as terrorist organizations and imposing sanctions on individuals or groups responsible for severe violations of religious freedom. These could include visa restrictions or freezing of assets.

Supporters say the bill demonstrates a strong commitment to protecting persecuted communities and upholding human rights internationally, while critics argue that the root causes of violence in Nigeria are complex and go beyond religion alone.