The United States Congress has called for a comprehensive bilateral agreement with Nigeria aimed at protecting Christian communities, dismantling jihadist networks, and curbing the influence of China and Russia in the country.

The proposal emerged from a joint resolution by the House Appropriations Committee and the House Foreign Affairs Committee, shared on social media by Congressman Riley Moore. The resolution, titled “Ending the Persecution of Christians in Nigeria”, praised President Donald Trump for redesignating Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC), a move described as decisive in holding perpetrators of religious violence accountable.

Trump announced in October 2026 that Nigeria would return to the CPC list, citing widespread persecution of Christians in the country. Nigeria had previously been placed on the list in 2020 but was removed by former President Joe Biden.

Calls for Sanctions and Visa Restrictions

Congress recommended targeted visa bans and asset freezes against individuals and groups accused of religious persecution, including former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, and the Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore.

The committees described Nigeria as “the deadliest place in the world to be a Christian,” highlighting attacks by heavily armed Fulani militias and terrorist groups that have led to thousands of deaths, destruction of churches and schools, and widespread kidnappings. They also criticized northern Nigerian blasphemy laws for silencing dissent and targeting minorities.

Proposed Bilateral Security and Economic Pact

The US lawmakers urged President Trump to negotiate a strategic partnership with Nigeria to:

Protect vulnerable Christian communities from violence

Eliminate jihadist terror activity

Enhance economic cooperation

Counter the growing influence of China and Russia in the region

Under the proposed pact, Nigeria would co-fund humanitarian assistance, prioritising internally displaced persons in the Christian-majority Middle Belt. Security reforms include early-warning mechanisms, rapid-response forces, disarmament programs for armed militias, and technical support for Nigeria’s security agencies.

Strengthening Counter-Terrorism and Defence Cooperation

The Congress also recommended expanded counter-terrorism cooperation, divestment from Russian military equipment in favour of US systems, and support for ranching and land reforms to stabilise communities. Measures to improve accountability include audits of US aid, visa restrictions on perpetrators of religious violence, and a review of trade policies linked to militias.

The committees described the recommendations as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to redefine US-Nigeria relations and make both nations safer, stronger, and more prosperous.