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The US will restrict visas for individuals responsible for persecuting Christians in Nigeria.
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Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the decision, citing ongoing atrocities.
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Move follows former President Donald Trump’s designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged genocide against Christians.
The United States government has announced visa restrictions on individuals directing, funding, or supporting the persecution of Christians in Nigeria.
The decision was disclosed by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Wednesday via X, emphasizing that it applies to individuals and governments violating religious freedoms worldwide.
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“The United States is taking decisive action in response to the atrocities and violence against Christians in Nigeria and around the world,” Rubio stated.
The policy follows former President Donald Trump’s designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern”, citing what he described as genocide against Christians. Trump announced the designation on October 30, 2025, through his Truth Social platform and a national address, claiming that thousands of Christians are being killed by radical Islamist groups.
Trump directed Congress members, including Reps. Riley Moore and Tom Cole, to investigate the situation and report back.
In support, US lawmakers condemned the abduction of children and teachers from St. Mary Catholic School in Niger State.
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Rep. Moore said:
“We cannot turn a blind eye to our brothers and sisters in Christ in Nigeria who are persecuted daily. No one should be targeted for their faith.”
Meanwhile, Congressman Chris Smith, chair of the House Foreign Affairs Africa Subcommittee, accused Nigerian authorities of failing in their constitutional duty to protect citizens, warning that Washington would not allow impunity to persist.
The US has called on Nigeria to take urgent action to address religious persecution as insecurity and targeted killings continue to escalate nationwide.
