The United States House of Representatives Subcommittee on Africa will hold a hearing on Thursday, November 20, 2025, to examine Nigeria’s designation as a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged attacks on Christians.
The hearing, scheduled for 11:00 a.m. at Room 2172 of the Rayburn House Office Building and accessible via live webcast, will be chaired by Representative Chris Smith (R-NJ). It will feature two panels, including senior US State Department officials and Nigerian religious leaders.
President Donald Trump re-designated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern on October 31, citing severe religious freedom violations, particularly against Christians. Trump highlighted attacks by extremist groups, kidnappings, and church destructions, warning that the US could suspend aid or take military action if the Nigerian government fails to address the issue.
Panelists at the hearing will include Jonathan Pratt, Senior Bureau Official for African Affairs, and Jacob McGee, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor. The second panel includes Nina Shea, Director of the Centre for Religious Freedom; Bishop Wilfred Anagbe of Makurdi Catholic Diocese; and Oge Onubogu of the Centre for Strategic & International Studies.
The congressional hearing will review the scope of religious persecution in Nigeria and explore policy responses such as sanctions, humanitarian assistance, and collaboration with Nigerian authorities. A related bill is also under consideration in the US Senate, sponsored by Senator Ted Cruz.
Reacting, President Bola Tinubu said the designation does not reflect Nigeria’s constitutional commitment to religious freedom. “Nigeria stands firmly as a democracy governed by constitutional guarantees of religious liberty,” Tinubu said, adding that the country opposes religious persecution.
Pope Leo XIV also voiced concern over attacks on Christian communities in Nigeria and other regions, calling for peace and unity among all believers.
To promote peace domestically, Tinubu dispatched Dr. Abiodun Essiet to Plateau State to engage Christian and Muslim community leaders and reinforce grassroots dialogue and stability.
