U.S. Congress to Probe Nigeria’s Religious Violence Amid CPC Designation

The U.S. Congress is set to hold a high-profile hearing on Thursday, November 20, 2025, to examine allegations of Christian persecution in Nigeria, following President Donald Trump’s recent re-designation of the country as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) under the International Religious Freedom Act.
The hearing, to be chaired by Rep. Chris Smith, a vocal advocate on African religious freedom issues, will explore not only reports of attacks on Christian communities but also the potential role of Nigerian authorities in addressing—or failing to address—the violence. Smith’s previous resolution called for visa restrictions and asset freezes on members of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) and Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, as well as the inclusion of Fulani militias in Benue and Plateau States on the U.S. Entities of Particular Concern list.
Lawmakers will consider testimony from U.S. State Department officials, including Jonathan Pratt and Jacob McGee, alongside experts and religious leaders such as Nina Shea, Bishop Wilfred Anagbe, and Oge Onubogu of CSIS. The panels will examine both the immediate security concerns for Nigeria’s Christian population and the broader implications for U.S.–Nigeria relations, including future sanctions, aid adjustments, and diplomatic measures.
Observers say the congressional review signals a heightened U.S. focus on accountability, religious freedom, and governance in Nigeria, with potential ripple effects for foreign policy and development assistance.