The United States government is reportedly considering sanctions against 12 Nigerian governors and several top officials following their alleged inclusion on a new watchlist compiled by the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) often referred to as the Country of Particular Concern (CPC) list.
Diplomatic sources revealed that Washington is currently reviewing recommendations to impose visa restrictions, asset freezes, and other punitive measures on Nigerian officials accused of enabling or ignoring human rights violations and religious persecution.
The list reportedly includes governors from northern and central Nigeria, where religious and ethnic tensions have frequently escalated into violent conflicts.
This development comes after former U.S. President Donald Trump categorized Nigeria as a “country of particular concern”, citing persistent attacks on Christian communities and what he described as the government’s failure to act decisively. Trump had earlier warned that the U.S. might suspend aid or impose direct sanctions if Abuja failed to address the situation.
American officials said the renewed focus follows continued attacks on churches, rural displacements, and alleged abuses by Nigerian security forces in managing religiously charged crises. If approved, sanctions could roll out in phases and may extend to certain security officials suspected of shielding perpetrators.
Reacting to the reports, Presidential spokesman Daniel Bwala dismissed the claims as biased and politically motivated, asserting that Nigeria’s constitution protects the rights of all citizens equally.
“Nigeria’s complex security challenges must not be misrepresented as religious persecution,” Bwala stated, adding that the government would issue an official response once the U.S. concludes its review.
The proposed sanctions, if implemented, could further strain diplomatic relations between Abuja and Washington, particularly at a time when Nigeria is seeking stronger international support for its security and development efforts.
