President Trump designates Nigeria Country of Particular Concern

President Trump designates Nigeria Country of Particular Concern

..expresses worry over killings of Christians, orders U.S. Congress to investigate

By Johnson Arua

President of the United States, Donald Trump, has designated Nigeria "Country of Particular Concern” expressing serious concern over what he described as the mounting persecution and mass killing of Christians in Nigeria, warning that the faith is facing an “existential threat” in the country.

In a strongly worded statement, Trump alleged that thousands of Christians have been killed across Nigeria, blaming what he termed “radical Islamists” for the violence. He cited figures suggesting that 3,100 Christians were killed in Nigeria compared to 4,476 deaths recorded globally, saying the ratio was alarming and unacceptable.

The former U.S. president declared Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern” — a designation typically applied to nations accused of severe religious freedom violations — and called for urgent intervention from the U.S. government.

Trump directed Congressman Riley Moore, Chairman Tom Cole, and the House Appropriations Committee to immediately launch an investigation into the reported attacks and submit findings to him.

“The United States cannot stand by while such atrocities are happening in Nigeria, and numerous other countries,” Trump stated, insisting that Washington must act to protect Christian populations worldwide.

Although Nigeria has for years grappled with violent attacks linked to insurgents, bandits, and communal clashes — particularly in the northern region — Trump’s comments mark one of the strongest foreign political reactions to the crisis.

Human rights organisations have repeatedly accused the Nigerian government of failing to curb the violence, while authorities often attribute the killings to criminal elements rather than religious persecution.

With Trump’s latest remarks, pressure may intensify on U.S. lawmakers and international watchdogs to reassess Nigeria’s religious freedom record, a development that could shape future diplomatic engagements.

Nigeria’s government has yet to officially respond to the statement.

Read full text:

"Christianity is facing an existential threat in Nigeria. Thousands of Christians are being killed. Radical Islamists are responsible for this mass slaughter. I am hereby making Nigeria a “COUNTRY OF PARTICULAR CONCERN” — But that is the least of it. When Christians, or any such group, is slaughtered like is happening in Nigeria (3,100 versus 4,476 Worldwide), something must be done! I am asking Congressman Riley Moore, together with Chairman Tom Cole and the House Appropriations Committee, to immediately look into this matter, and report back to me. The United States cannot stand by while such atrocities are happening in Nigeria, and numerous other Countries. We stand ready, willing, and able to save our Great Christian population around the World!"

"DONALD J. TRUMP, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA"