Key Points

• US lawmakers push a bill to sanction Miyetti Allah and Fulani militias.

• Nigeria engages Washington to address religious freedom concerns.

• Tinubu pledges to fight terrorism and strengthen international cooperation.

The United States Congress is considering a bill that would sanction the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria and Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore for alleged attacks on Christian communities.

The bill, introduced by Representative Christopher Smith, seeks visa bans and asset freezes against individuals linked to the two groups.

It follows Washington’s move to re-designate Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” under the International Religious Freedom Act.

The label applies to nations accused of serious violations of religious liberty.

The proposal has added pressure to U.S.-Nigeria relations, though Abuja maintains it remains calm and open to talks.

Nigeria opens dialogue with Washington

Information Minister Mohammed Idris said the government is “not in panic mode” and has already opened communication channels with U.S. officials.

He told reporters after the Federal Executive Council meeting in Abuja that Nigeria is committed to protecting citizens of all faiths.

“The killing of even one Nigerian is a concern to this government,” Idris said. “Our constitution guarantees freedom of religion, and we’ll continue to ensure safety for everyone.”

He described the administration as stable and focused on addressing insecurity through local and international cooperation.

Tinubu vows to defeat terrorism

President Bola Tinubu has promised that his government will defeat terrorism and keep engaging with global partners.

“Despite political headwinds, we’ll continue to engage the world diplomatically,” he said after a briefing at the Presidential Villa.

“The task ahead is immense, but we’re resolved to move forward with unity and purpose.”

Tinubu dismissed claims that Nigeria targets Christians. He said such claims were inaccurate and ignored government efforts to promote peace between faiths.

U.S. lawmakers expand scope

The congressional bill also names “Fulani Ethnic Militias” operating in Benue and Plateau states as “Entities of Particular Concern.”

They would join Boko Haram, ISIS-West Africa, and the Taliban on the list of groups accused of violating religious freedom.

Senator Ted Cruz has revived his “Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act of 2025,” which proposes sanctions for Nigerian officials accused of supporting or enforcing blasphemy laws.

Supporters of the new measures say they’re needed to curb ongoing religious violence. Critics argue that Nigeria’s insecurity is fueled more by economic hardship and political tension than by religion.

Reports of possible U.S. military plans

The New York Times reported that the Pentagon has developed potential airstrike options in Nigeria. The plans follow President Donald Trump’s order to “prepare to protect Christians from terrorist attacks.”

According to the report, the Pentagon drafted three levels of engagement. The first would deploy an aircraft carrier strike group to the Gulf of Guinea.

The second would rely on drones for targeted strikes. The third would focus on intelligence sharing and joint operations with Nigerian forces.

Officials reportedly admitted that airstrikes alone would not end Nigeria’s insurgency unless Washington committed to a larger campaign.

Trump had earlier warned that he might send U.S. forces into Nigeria “guns blazing” if the attacks on Christians continued, describing the situation as a “mass slaughter.”

Tinubu defends Nigeria’s image

Tinubu rejected allegations of religious intolerance, describing Nigeria as a democracy founded on freedom of worship.

“The claim that Nigeria is hostile to Christians is false,” he said. “Religious freedom and tolerance are part of our collective identity.

We’ll keep working with the U.S. and international partners to protect communities of all faiths.”

The bill’s passage could redefine U.S.-Nigeria relations. Its outcome may influence future cooperation on security and human rights, especially if sanctions reach individuals or organizations operating in Nigeria.