Members of the United States Congress have said Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) on religious freedom is intended to encourage reforms and deepen constructive engagement, rather than punish the country or undermine bilateral relations.
The lawmakers, led by Representative Bill Huizenga and joined by Michael Baumgartner, Keith Self and Jefferson Shreve, stated this during a press briefing in Nigeria following meetings with senior government officials, security chiefs, religious leaders and civil society groups.
They explained that the visit formed part of an ongoing congressional engagement with Nigeria, noting that it was the delegation’s second visit in two weeks and the third by some members this year. According to them, the objective was to listen, learn and gain first-hand understanding of Nigeria’s complex security and religious landscape.
One of the lawmakers said the CPC designation had already sparked important internal discussions within Nigeria, which he described as part of the intent behind the decision. “The purpose was not simply to send messages, but also to receive information,” he said, adding that there were indications that structures were being put in place to address the issues raised.
The delegation emphasised that the core concern of the United States is the protection of all Nigerians, irrespective of religion. They referenced reports of violence affecting Christian communities in the Middle Belt, as well as Muslim-on-Muslim violence in the North-East and North-West.
They also distinguished between religiously motivated violence and terrorism perpetrated by designated groups such as Boko Haram, noting that each challenge requires different policy responses. “Borno State is different from Benue or Plateau. These are different regions with different circumstances,” one lawmaker said.
Responding to questions, the lawmakers said they had not come to Nigeria to conduct field investigations or verify specific allegations of genocide, but acknowledged hearing sharply divergent perspectives from stakeholders. While some downplayed the religious dimension of the violence, others described it as significant.
Describing Nigeria as a highly complex country, one congressman cited Plateau State alone as having more than 50 ethnic nationalities, stressing that such diversity requires sustained engagement and careful analysis.
The delegation confirmed holding discussions with the National Security Adviser, the Attorney-General of the Federation, the Minister of Defence, state governors, business leaders and religious figures. Several members described the visit largely as a listening exercise, with one noting that over 90 per cent of the engagement was devoted to hearing Nigerian views.
Highlighting Nigeria’s strategic importance, a lawmaker said Africa’s success is closely linked to Nigeria’s stability and prosperity. “The world cannot be successful unless America and Nigeria are successful together,” he said, adding that congressional engagement with Nigeria should increase.
Addressing concerns that the CPC designation could push Nigeria to seek alternative alliances, the lawmakers dismissed the notion, saying strong partnerships allow for frank and sometimes difficult conversations. They stressed that such designations are not permanent, but are designed to encourage policy changes.
“This does not have to be negative,” one lawmaker said. “It can be a positive starting point for a deeper relationship.”
On reports of possible visa restrictions, the United States Embassy clarified that a presidential immigration proclamation will take effect on January 1, affecting specific visa categories, with exemptions for diplomatic, official and religious visas. Nigerians were advised to consult the embassy’s official website for accurate information.
The lawmakers concluded by urging continued dialogue, stability and data-driven debate within Nigeria, noting that lasting prosperity depends on peace, security and inclusive governance.
