By Ovasa Ogaga,
U.S. lawmakers have raised fresh concerns over escalating violence against Christian communities in Nigeria, urging the Nigerian government to take urgent action while warning that continued American security assistance may depend on measurable progress in addressing the crisis.
In a joint statement released during Holy Week via the X account of U.S. Congressman Riley Moore, a group of legislators led by Robert Aderholt condemned what they described as persistent attacks and persecution of Christians, particularly in Nigeria’s Middle Belt region.
The lawmakers noted that the timing of the violence, coinciding with one of the most sacred periods in the Christian calendar, underscores both its severity and symbolic impact on affected communities.
“As Christians in Nigeria continue to face brutal violence and death for their faith this Holy Week, we joined our colleagues in condemning the persecution,” the statement read. It added that bipartisan legislation signed under Donald Trump includes provisions linking U.S. security assistance to Nigeria’s progress in tackling such violence.
According to the group, the legislative push—championed by members including Mario Diaz-Balart—was designed to ensure that American support is tied to demonstrable efforts in protecting vulnerable populations and restoring stability in affected regions.
Nigeria’s Middle Belt has long remained a hotspot for violent clashes, often involving farmers and herders, with conflicts frequently assuming ethnic and religious dimensions. The U.S. lawmakers insisted that the ongoing violence demands immediate and decisive intervention from Nigerian authorities.
