In a significant development that could reshape US-Nigeria relations, Congressman Riley Moore disclosed on November 7, 2025, that he has submitted a congressional resolution at the direct instruction of former President Donald Trump, targeting Nigeria's handling of religious violence and Christian persecution.
Key Demands in the Congressional Resolution
The resolution, which Moore shared publicly on his X (formerly Twitter) account, outlines six specific demands that the United States government should pursue regarding Nigeria's religious freedom situation. The document calls for comprehensive diplomatic, economic, and security measures to address what it describes as ongoing religious violence in the West African nation.
According to the resolution's text, the United States should:
- End impunity for perpetrators of religiously motivated violence
- Protect Christian communities and clergy from further attacks
- Work to return internally displaced persons to their homelands, particularly Christian populations
- Repeal blasphemy laws and release all prisoners detained for their faith
- Coordinate with international partners to deliver humanitarian aid through trusted organizations
- Affirm US commitment to stand with Christians and defend their right to practice faith without fear
Growing International Scrutiny
The resolution appears to reflect increasing concern among US lawmakers about religious freedom and human rights conditions in Nigeria. This move is likely to spark intense debate in both Washington and Abuja, touching on sensitive issues of national sovereignty and international pressure.
Notably, the Nigerian government has not yet issued any public response to the resolution's demands. The language used in the document, particularly its call to repeal blasphemy laws and release faith-based detainees, signals a strong stance from Trump and his allies on global religious freedom matters.
Broader Context and Implications
The resolution's inclusion of humanitarian aid coordination suggests a comprehensive strategy that extends beyond mere political pressure. As Congressman Moore stated in the resolution: "Affirms the commitment of the United States to stand in solidarity with Christians and to defend their right to practice their faith without fear of persecution, violence, and even death."
This development comes amid renewed attention on Nigeria's security challenges. In a related context, the United States had previously sanctioned six Nigerian nationals in March 2022 for financing Boko Haram while residing in the United Arab Emirates. The Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control designated these individuals under Executive Order 13224, revealing that the group attempted to transfer $782,000 from Dubai to Nigeria to support Boko Haram fighters.
The resolution is now undergoing review in Congress, where it may face either scrutiny or support depending on broader foreign policy priorities and the evolving relationship between the United States and Nigeria.
