By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By By Peter Onyekachukwu
The United States has announced visa restrictions on individuals involved in the persecution of Christians and violations of religious freedom in Nigeria.
The move was confirmed by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in a post on X on Wednesday. He stated that the action targets those who “knowingly direct, authorize, fund, support, or carry out violations of religious freedom.”
This decision follows President Donald Trump’s earlier designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern, citing what he described as “genocide against Christians” in the country.
Trump made the announcement on October 30 via his Truth Social platform, reiterating the severity of attacks against Christians in Nigeria. “Christianity is facing an existential threat in Nigeria. Thousands of Christians are being killed,” he said.
The former president also revealed that he had instructed Rep. Riley Moore, R-W.Va., Rep. Tom Cole, R-Okla., and members of the House Appropriations Committee to investigate the situation and report back.
“The United States cannot stand by while such atrocities are happening in Nigeria and other countries,” Trump added, emphasizing the U.S.’s commitment to protecting Christians globally.
Several U.S. lawmakers have supported the designation. Rep. Riley Moore condemned the recent abduction of children and teachers from St. Mary Catholic School in Niger State, calling for global attention to the plight of Nigerian Christians.
Moore said, “No one should be targeted for their faith in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” stressing that international intervention is crucial.
Earlier, U.S. lawmakers had urged Washington to pressure the Nigerian government, criticizing Abuja for inaction amid rising insecurity and targeted killings.
Congressman Chris Smith, chair of the House Foreign Affairs Africa Subcommittee, said Nigerian authorities were failing in their constitutional duty to protect citizens. He accused the government of deliberately delaying efforts to curb religious violence.
The U.S. visa restrictions signal Washington’s intention to hold perpetrators accountable and reinforce its stance on religious freedom, sending a clear message that violations will carry international consequences.