APC seeks to face US Congress over Nigeria’s religious persecution label

The United States chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has asked to appear before the US House Subcommittee on Africa on Thursday as American legislators revisit former President Donald Trump’s decision to redesignate Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” on grounds of alleged religious persecution.

In a letter addressed to the Subcommittee Chair, Chris Smith, the group said it was prepared to present a senior delegation capable of offering what it described as credible intelligence, on-the-ground assessments, and independently verifiable data on Nigeria’s security realities.

The Chairman of APC USA, Prof. Tai Balofin, confirmed the development in a statement issued in Abuja. He said the organisation supports the protection of religious liberty but noted that international discussions often overlook the broader drivers of Nigeria’s insecurity.

According to him, the delegation is ready to honour an invitation from Congress at any moment.

He cautioned that foreign narratives frequently present an incomplete account of Nigeria’s security crisis, which, he stressed, is influenced by banditry, competition over natural resources, climate-related pressures, and cross-border criminal networks—factors that extend far beyond religious identity.

Balofin said the group intends to outline what it considers significant improvements recorded under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, including the weakening of terrorist cells, better community-level early-warning structures, and various interfaith peacebuilding efforts. He added that both Nigerian agencies and independent observers have reported fewer attacks in some of the most troubled regions.

APC USA will also table proposals for deeper cooperation between Washington and Abuja in security, intelligence exchange, and humanitarian support, insisting that a stronger partnership is essential for safeguarding Nigerians of all faiths while preserving diplomatic goodwill.

Balofin commended Congressman Smith’s longstanding commitment to global human rights and appealed for APC USA to be allowed to add clarity and balance to the ongoing debate.