February 24, 2026 — SUNTV Global News Desk
A powerful report alleging widespread religious persecution and mass killings in Northern Nigeria has been formally delivered to the White House by the United States Congress, triggering fresh international pressure on Nigeria.
The explosive document was presented during a high-level meeting led by U.S. Congressman Riley M. Moore alongside members of key congressional committees on appropriations and foreign affairs.
Trump Administration Reopens Pressure on Nigeria
The submission follows the recent decision by U.S. President Donald Trump to redesignate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) on October 31, 2025 — a classification reserved for nations accused of severe violations of religious freedom.
According to U.S. officials, the report was compiled after months of investigations initiated when Trump tasked Moore and House Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole with conducting a comprehensive inquiry into alleged persecution of Christian communities.
Inside the Investigation
Lawmakers said their probe involved:
- A bipartisan fact-finding mission to Nigeria
- Hearings with security and religious experts
- Meetings with internally displaced persons (IDPs)
- Consultations with Nigerian officials and community leaders
They concluded that their findings revealed “deep insecurity, extremist violence, and systemic governance failures” disproportionately affecting Christian populations in Northern Nigeria.
Major Recommendations in the Report
The report contains sweeping proposals that could significantly affect Nigeria’s international relations, including:
- A new U.S.–Nigeria security pact focused on protecting vulnerable communities
- Withholding portions of U.S. financial assistance pending measurable action by Nigeria
- Sanctions and visa bans on individuals accused of religious persecution
- Technical support to address violence linked to armed militias
- A controversial call for the repeal of Sharia and blasphemy laws in northern states
- Coordinated international action with allies including France, Hungary, and the United Kingdom
Potential Diplomatic Fallout
The recommendation to abolish Sharia-based legal systems is expected to ignite strong debate, as several northern states operate religious courts alongside Nigeria’s constitutional framework.
Speaking after the meeting, Congressman Moore praised Trump’s decision to restore Nigeria’s CPC designation.
“We saw firsthand the devastating atrocities facing Christian communities and the urgent security crisis confronting Nigeria,” Moore stated.
He added that the report provides what he described as a clear picture of the threats and the need for urgent global action.
