President Donald Trump has again accused Nigerian authorities of enabling a “genocide” against Christians, warning that his administration may cut U.S. foreign aid and impose “strong measures” unless the Nigerian government takes decisive action to stop religious killings.
Speaking at a faith-based conference in Washington D.C.,Trump stated that the persecution of Christians in Nigeria is one of the world’s gravest humanitarian crimes and that the silence must end, adding that the United States will not continue funding governments that look away while their people are slaughtered for their faith.
The statement reignited diplomatic friction between Washington and Abuja, coming days after U.S. lawmakers proposed visa restrictions on members of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association. Nigerian officials have dismissed the claims as “grossly exaggerated,” noting that conflicts in Nigeria are driven more by resource competition than religion.
Foreign policy analysts say the latest warning reflects the administration’s shift toward a more assertive foreign policy on religious-freedom issues, particularly in Africa. The Nigerian government has urged continued dialogue, insisting it remains committed to protecting citizens of all faiths.
