The United States Department of State has reportedly returned Nigeria to its global religious freedom watchlist, following public remarks by former U.S. President Donald Trump threatening “firm action” against countries accused of persecuting Christians.
The designation marks a significant diplomatic setback for Nigeria, which was delisted in 2021 after lobbying by previous administrations. The move implies that Washington will intensify monitoring and could impose sanctions on individuals or institutions found complicit in religiously motivated violence.
U.S. officials cited “credible reports of targeted attacks, impunity, and failure to prosecute offenders” as reasons for the renewed listing. The development comes amid rising political tension over alleged genocide in Nigeria’s Middle Belt and the North.
In Abuja, the Federal Government expressed disappointment over the decision, calling it “unfounded and unfair.” Minister of Information Mohammed Idris said Nigeria remains committed to protecting all citizens, regardless of faith, and accused unnamed international groups of spreading misinformation.
Analysts warn that the designation could strain bilateral relations and affect military cooperation, especially in counter-terrorism and intelligence sharing.
Religious leaders in Nigeria expressed mixed feelings — some welcomed the move as pressure for accountability, while others viewed it as an intrusion into domestic affairs. The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) called for constructive engagement, saying the government should focus on ensuring justice for victims of religious violence rather than disputing international reports.
Human-rights advocates say the watchlist status could push Nigeria toward greater transparency if managed diplomatically. They urge the government to improve investigations, prosecute offenders, and foster interfaith dialogue.
For now, the inclusion sends a message: global powers are watching Nigeria’s human-rights record closely. How the Tinubu administration responds could shape the nation’s international reputation for years to come.