U.S. Weighs Sanctions and Security Measures to Push Nigeria on Protecting Christians

The United States is evaluating a range of diplomatic and security actions—including targeted sanctions and enhanced Pentagon involvement in counterterrorism—to pressure the Nigerian government to strengthen protections for Christian communities and uphold religious freedom. The proposal was outlined by Jonathan Pratt, a senior U.S. State Department official, during testimony before the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

Pratt stated that the Trump administration is developing a strategy designed to “incentivize and compel” Nigerian authorities to take stronger action against violence affecting Christian populations. The plan may involve coordinated efforts between the State Department, the Treasury Department, and the Department of War, alongside expanded intelligence sharing and closer examination of U.S. security assistance provided to Nigeria.

President Donald Trump has placed renewed scrutiny on Nigeria, reinstating the country on the U.S. “Countries of Particular Concern” list for alleged violations of religious freedom. Trump has also publicly warned of potential rapid military action if Nigeria fails to curb attacks on Christians and announced the suspension of all U.S. aid to the West African nation.

Nigerian officials reject claims that Christians are being specifically persecuted, arguing that the country’s security challenges are multifaceted and involve ethnic tensions, resource conflicts, and long-standing regional instability. They emphasize that Nigeria’s 200 ethnic groups—spanning Christianity, Islam, and traditional faiths—have historically coexisted, despite periodic unrest.

Violence by extremist groups like Boko Haram continues to destabilize northeastern Nigeria, causing tens of thousands of deaths over the past 15 years. Human rights observers note that while Christians have suffered atrocities, Boko Haram has killed even more Muslims throughout its insurgency.

In response to growing U.S. pressure, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu sent a high-level security delegation to Washington, including the national security adviser, defense chief, and police leadership. They are scheduled to meet with senior U.S. officials, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine, and Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau.

U.S. officials reiterated that more action is needed from Nigeria. Jacob McGee of the State Department’s human rights bureau stressed that the recent designation has captured the Nigerian government’s attention but emphasized ongoing diplomatic engagement to reinforce Washington’s message: Nigeria must do more to safeguard religious communities and address rising violence.