US Congress Warns Nigeria: Act now or face tougher actions

United States lawmakers on Tuesday said the Nigerian government is not doing enough to stop increasing violence and killings happening across the country.

The comments were made during a joint briefing of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, where members discussed reports of organised attacks on Christians and other vulnerable groups in Nigeria.

During the session, lawmakers referred to President Donald Trump’s recent decision to again label Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern,” along with his warning that the U.S. may consider military action if the violence continues.

Congressman Chris Smith said Nigerian leaders are failing in their duty to protect citizens.

“The people behind these attacks continue to operate freely without punishment,” he told the panel.

Smith, who leads the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, warned that the U.S. will hold Nigeria responsible for the ongoing killings.

“The Nigerian government is trying to delay action. We cannot allow that. Serious steps must be taken now to save lives,” he said.

Representative Brian Mast supported Trump’s decision to re-designate Nigeria and said Washington must increase pressure on the Nigerian government. He called on the U.S. to demand that armed groups be disarmed, displaced communities resettled, and attackers prosecuted.

Riley Moore, Vice Chair of the House Appropriations Legislative Branch Subcommittee, also spoke, saying Christians in Nigeria are facing targeted attacks.

“The world will no longer pretend not to see what is happening to Christians in Nigeria,” he said.

Vicky Hartzler, Chair of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, also addressed the meeting. She accused Nigerian authorities of ignoring warnings that could prevent attacks. She said communities often alert security agencies before or during attacks but receive no help.

“This happens too often. People ask for protection, but no one comes. Sometimes police are contacted while attacks are ongoing, yet nothing is done. This is unacceptable,” Hartzler said.

She urged the U.S. to give more support but insisted that Nigerian officials must take responsibility for protecting their people.