17/11/2025
The US House Subcommittee on Africa will hold an open hearing on Thursday, November 20, 2025, to examine President Donald Trumpâs recent designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) over alleged attacks on Christians. If ratified by the Senate, the move could allow sanctions against officials linked to religious persecution and limit certain US aid.
The hearing, chaired by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), will feature two panels including US State Department officials, Nigerian religious leaders, and experts on religious freedom. Panelists will discuss the scope of persecution, policy responses, and potential sanctions.
Trumpâs CPC designation has reignited debate about rising attacks on Christians in Nigeria, with the US claiming thousands have been killed by extremist groups. President Bola Tinubu maintains that the claims misrepresent Nigeriaâs reality, emphasizing constitutional protections for religious freedom.
Supporting the focus on the issue, Pope Leo XIV expressed concern over global persecution of Christians, highlighting Nigeria, Bangladesh, Mozambique, and Sudan, and called for prayers for peace and unity.
US Congressmen, including Riley Moore, insist that evidence points to severe Christian-targeted violence, and that measures such as sanctions could deter further attacks.
Meanwhile, President Tinubu has deployed emissaries to Plateau State to foster peace between Christian communities and herdsmen, successfully mediating local disputes and promoting dialogue for long-term stability. âď¸đ¤
The ongoing discussions highlight the international focus on Nigeriaâs religious freedom and the balance between intervention, diplomacy, and grassroots peace efforts.