Trump Redesignates Nigeria as Religious Freedom Concern

President Donald Trump announced on Truth Social that he has redesignated Nigeria as a "Country of Particular Concern," saying Christianity in Nigeria faces an "existential threat" and accusing "radical Islamists" of killing thousands. The CPC label, the strongest U.S. rebuke under the International Religious Freedom Act, can lead to sanctions, aid restrictions or arms limits, though such measures are not automatic. Trump directed Rep. Riley Moore, Appropriations Chair Tom Cole and the House Appropriations Committee to conduct an immediate review and report back. GOP lawmakers including Rep. Moore and Sen. Ted Cruz praised the move and pledged to pursue legislation or investigations. Human rights groups and watchdogs report high numbers of Christians killed, kidnapped or displaced in 2025 and prior years, attributing attacks to Boko Haram, ISWAP and Fulani militants. Nigerian officials reject characterizations of the violence as genocide and describe the situation as broader insecurity.