United States lawmakers on Tuesday faulted the Nigerian government for failing to curb escalating violence and widespread killings across the country.
The statements were made during a joint briefing of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, convened to examine allegations of systematic attacks on Christians and other vulnerable groups in Nigeria.
Speaking at the session, members of Congress referenced President Donald Trump’s designation of Nigeria as a `Country of Particular Concernʼ and his warning of possible military intervention.
Congressman Chris Smith said the Nigerian authorities were falling short of their constitutional duty to protect citizens.
“The perpetrators of these attacks and persecution continue to act with absolute impunity,” he told the panel.
Smith, who chairs the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, warned that the United States intends to hold the Nigerian government accountable for ongoing killings.
“The Nigerian government is trying to run out the clock. We cannot allow this. Urgent and decisive action is needed to save more lives,” he said.
Representative Brian Mast backed Trump’s decision to re-designate Nigeria, insisting that Washington must increase pressure on Abuja.
He urged the U.S. to demand the disarmament of armed groups, restoration of displaced communities, and prosecution of those responsible for the attacks.
Also speaking, Riley Moore, Vice Chair of the House Appropriations Legislative Branch Subcommittee and a leading advocate for religious freedom, reiterated claims of targeted violence.
“The world will no longer turn away from what is happening to Christians in Nigeria,” he said.
The lawmakers were joined by Vicky Hartzler, Chair of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, who accused Nigerian authorities of repeatedly failing to act on intelligence that could prevent violent attacks on Christians and minority vulnerable communities.
She stressed the need for greater investment in early-warning systems and maintained that the Nigerian government must respond promptly to alerts.
“Too often, communities warn of imminent attacks and plead for protection, yet no help comes. In some cases, law enforcement is contacted during an assault and still no response follows. This is unacceptable,” Hartzler said.
Hartzler called for stronger U.S. support but insisted that pressure must remain on Nigerian officials to fulfil their responsibilities in safeguarding citizens.
