Former U.S. President Donald Trump has once again turned global attention toward Nigeria, designating the West African nation as a “Country of Particular Concern (CPC)” over what he described as the ongoing persecution and killings of Christians.
In a post shared on his Truth Social account on Friday, Trump alleged that Christianity is facing an existential threat in Nigeria and urged the U.S. government to act swiftly. “Thousands of Christians are being killed. Radical Islamists are responsible for this mass slaughter,” Trump wrote.
The former U.S. leader’s statement comes as the U.S. State Department reportedly updated its watchlist of nations accused of violating religious freedoms. The list, which also includes China, North Korea, Myanmar, Russia, and Pakistan, identifies countries where governments have “engaged in or tolerated severe violations of religious freedom.”
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Trump’s announcement has sparked renewed debate in diplomatic circles. Some analysts say his renewed focus on Nigeria may pressure Washington to reassess its engagement with Abuja over security and human rights concerns.
Trump also revealed that he had instructed U.S. Representatives Riley Moore and Tom Cole, alongside members of the House Appropriations Committee, to investigate the alleged genocide and submit a formal report.
While Nigerian authorities have yet to issue an official response, several human rights groups and Christian organizations have long accused successive governments of failing to protect Christian communities, especially in northern and middle-belt regions plagued by Boko Haram, ISWAP, and bandit militias.
The U.S. first placed Nigeria on the CPC list in 2020, citing religious intolerance, but the designation was lifted in 2021 under President Joe Biden. Trump’s fresh declaration reignites the debate and could once again place Nigeria’s religious freedom record under international scrutiny.
Observers believe the move could also influence future U.S.–Nigeria diplomatic relations, especially regarding aid, arms deals, and counterterrorism cooperation.
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