The United States has imposed visa restrictions on individuals involved in violating religious freedom in Nigeria, with immediate family members of affected persons also potentially facing restrictions. This move is in response to the mass killings and attacks on Christians in Nigeria, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio stating that the US will restrict visas for those who have directed, authorized, significantly supported, participated in, or carried out violations of religious freedom.
The restrictions are part of a new policy under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, allowing the State Department to restrict visa issuance to individuals who have committed such violations. President Donald Trump had earlier designated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” under the International Religious Freedom Act, citing “genocide against Christians” in the country.
Rights groups say Nigeria is one of the most dangerous places in the world for Christians, with over 7,000 Christians killed in 2025 alone. The US government has urged the Nigerian government to take decisive action to protect its citizens and address the escalating violence.
The US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) has recommended sanctions on Nigerian officials, including governors and senior officials, accused of promoting or ignoring human rights violations and religious persecution. The Nigerian government has dismissed the report as biased and politically motivated.
The US is considering sanctions on 12 Nigerian governors and senior officials over religious freedom concerns, with potential measures including visa restrictions, asset freezes, and other punitive actions.
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