United States President Donald Trump has formally listed Nigeria as a “country of particular concern,” citing claims of widespread attacks against Christian communities.
Trump made the announcement on Friday on his Truth Social page, with the message later shared by the White House on its official X account. He stated that Christianity in Nigeria faces a severe threat, claiming that thousands of Christians have reportedly been killed by extremist groups.
According to Trump, the United States will not ignore what he described as mass killings. He directed Congressman Riley Moore and top members of the House Appropriations Committee to investigate the situation and report back to him, adding that the US is prepared to protect Christian communities across the world.
The “country of particular concern” tag is a formal US government designation applied to nations accused of serious violations of religious freedom.
US Lawmakers Voice Support
The move aligns with recent pressure from US lawmakers. Earlier in October, Congressman Riley Moore urged Secretary of State Marco Rubio to reinstate Nigeria’s designation and suspend arms sales until the Nigerian government demonstrates a credible plan to curb violence.
Moore claimed over 7,000 Christians were killed in 2025 and referenced reports suggesting some government actors may be involved. He also pointed to reports of Christian orphanages being closed in parts of Northern Nigeria and blasphemy laws imposing harsh penalties.
Senator Ted Cruz also accused Nigerian authorities of neglecting or enabling attacks on Christians.
Plateau Cleric Shares Viral Burial Video
A viral video shared by Plateau-based cleric Evangelist Ezekiel Dachomo added momentum to the calls. The footage showed mass burials following an attack in Heipang near Jos, where at least 11 people were reportedly killed.
Dachomo said the video was intended as evidence of ongoing persecution, claiming Christian communities in the region are repeatedly targeted. He stated residents have resorted to self-defense due to recurring attacks.
Nigerian Government Rejects Claims
Nigeria’s Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, dismissed the claims, saying some US officials are relying on inaccurate information. In a recent CNN interview, he argued that both Christians and Muslims have suffered from violent attacks, especially in the northern region.
Idris stressed that Nigeria is committed to protecting religious freedom and warned that portraying the violence as religion-driven could fuel tension and aid criminal groups seeking to divide communities.
Previous Designation
Nigeria was first placed on the US religious watchlist in 2020 during Trump’s administration but was removed by the Biden administration in 2021.
