A new bill introduced in the United States Congress seeks targeted sanctions against individuals and organizations accused of violating religious freedom in Nigeria.
Sponsored by U.S. Representative Chris Smith, the legislation specifically identifies the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) and Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore as groups implicated in abuses. It proposes visa bans, asset freezes, and other restrictions on members associated with these entities.
Smith commended President Donald Trump for re-designating Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) under the International Religious Freedom Act. “President Trump acted appropriately and decisively to hold the Nigerian government accountable for its complicity in religious persecution by radical Islamist groups such as Boko Haram and Fulani terrorists,” he said.
The bill also highlights that “Fulani Ethnic Militias” operating in Benue and Plateau states have been added to the U.S. Entities of Particular Concern (EPC) list, reserved for non-state actors involved in severe violations of religious freedom.
Beyond sanctions, the legislation calls for direct humanitarian aid to faith-based organizations assisting internally displaced persons in Nigeria’s Middle Belt. It further recommends conditioning U.S. foreign assistance, including global health funding, on Nigeria taking immediate action to address religious persecution.
The bill outlines long-term strategies for stability, urging the Nigerian government to prevent religiously motivated violence, prosecute offenders, support displaced populations, and uphold constitutional protections for religious freedom.
Smith’s bill coincides with renewed efforts by U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, who introduced the Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act of 2025, aimed at protecting Christians and other religious minorities.
These Congressional moves follow heightened tensions after President Trump warned of potential U.S. military action if the Nigerian government fails to halt the killing of Christians.
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