US lawmakers convene today for a joint congressional briefing. They address the surge in violent attacks across Nigeria. The session focuses on alleged persecution of Christians and other vulnerable groups amid ongoing banditry and terrorism.
The House Appropriations Committee leads this critical discussion. Vice Chair Congressman Riley Moore hosts the event. Participants examine reports of targeted killings, kidnappings, and destruction of communities. Recent incidents include the abduction of over 300 students from a Catholic school in northwest Nigeria last month. Bandits and jihadist groups intensify their assaults, displacing thousands and fueling a humanitarian crisis.
Lawmakers hear testimony from experts and survivors. They review evidence of systematic violence in northern and middle-belt regions. Bishop Anagbe warns that Christianity faces eradication due to these attacks. The briefing aims to inform potential US policy responses, including aid and sanctions.
President Donald Trump recently renewed Nigeria's designation as a Country of Particular Concern for religious freedom violations. He signals broader efforts to protect Nigerian Christians. This move follows claims that over 50,000 Christians have died and 20,000 churches burned in recent years.
"Nigeria grapples with complex security challenges," notes a US official. "We seek cooperation to curb this violence." Nigerian leaders face pressure to enhance protections, as internal critics demand action.