US Lawmakers Say CPC Designation Aims To Spur Progress, Deepen Nigeria–US Ties

Members of the United States Congress have stated that Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) regarding religious freedom is intended to encourage reforms and constructive engagement, not to punish the country or weaken bilateral relations.

The team, led by Rep. Bill Huizenga, included three other Congress members: Michael Baumgartner, Keith Self, and Jefferson Shreve, who were in Nigeria as part of a congressional delegation.

They spoke during a press briefing following meetings with senior government officials, security chiefs, religious leaders, and civil society representatives.

According to the delegation, this visit—the second in two weeks and the third by some members this year—was aimed at listening, learning, and gaining firsthand insight into Nigeria’s complex security and religious dynamics.

One of the lawmakers stated that the CPC designation has already prompted significant internal discussions within Nigeria, which he identified as part of the motivation behind the decision.

“The purpose was not simply to send messages but also to receive information,” he said. “What we want to see is progress, and there are signs that some structures are being put in place to facilitate that progress.”

The delegation stressed that the core concern of the United States is the protection of all Nigerians, regardless of faith, noting reports of violence affecting Christians in the Middle Belt, as well as instances of Muslim-on-Muslim violence in the North-East and North-West.

They made a distinction between religiously motivated violence and terrorism perpetrated by designated groups such as Boko Haram, explaining that each scenario necessitates different policy responses and resources.

“Borno State is different from Benue and Plateau. These are distinct regions with different circumstances,” a lawmaker noted, adding that any effective response must be tailored to the specific context.

Responding to questions from journalists, the lawmakers clarified that they had not come to Nigeria to conduct field investigations or verify specific claims of genocide.

They acknowledged hearing sharply differing opinions from stakeholders—some denying a religious dimension to the violence, while others insisted it is significant. “Nigeria is a complex country,” one congressman said.

“In Plateau State alone, we were told there are 54 ethnic nationalities. That level of complexity demands serious study and sustained engagement.”

The delegation confirmed its meetings with the National Security Adviser, the Attorney-General of the Federation, the Minister of Defence, state governors, business leaders, and religious figures from across the country.

Several lawmakers described the visit as predominantly a listening exercise, with one noting that more than 90 per cent of the engagement focused on understanding Nigerian perspectives rather than making statements.

One congressman emphasised Nigeria’s strategic importance, asserting that Africa’s success is closely tied to Nigeria’s stability and prosperity.

“The world cannot be successful unless America and Nigeria are successful together,” he said, adding that congressional visits to Nigeria should increase in the coming years.

Regarding concerns that the CPC designation might prompt Nigeria to seek alliances elsewhere, the delegation rejected that idea, arguing that “true friends can have tough conversations” without severing ties.

The lawmakers further emphasised that such designations and related measures are not permanent but meant to encourage changes in behaviour and policy.

“This does not have to be a negative,” one lawmaker remarked. “It can be a positive starting point for a deeper relationship.”

Addressing speculation about visa restrictions, the US Embassy clarified that a presidential proclamation on immigration takes effect on January 1 and affects specific visa categories, with exemptions for diplomatic, official, and religious visas. The embassy advised Nigerians to consult its website for accurate information.

The lawmakers acknowledged concerns that sanctions or designations could impact ordinary citizens more than government officials, but maintained that efforts are typically aimed at influencing government actions, with regular reviews incorporated into the process.

They urged a continued dialogue, stability, and credible data-driven discussions within Nigeria, stressing that lasting prosperity depends on peace, security, and inclusive governance.