From Marcus Nkire
US Imposes New Visa Restrictions Linked to Religious Freedom Violations in Nigeria
The United States has announced fresh visa restrictions targeting Nigerians accused of undermining religious freedom, widening Washington’s scrutiny of growing sectarian tensions in the country.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, in a statement posted on X yesterday, said the measure would apply to individuals who “knowingly direct, authorise, fund, support or carry out violations of religious freedom.” He added that the policy also extends to governments and actors in other countries implicated in similar abuses.
Rubio’s remarks followed a congressional roundtable in Washington, where lawmakers met with religious freedom advocates and foreign policy experts to review rising violence and reported persecution of Christian communities in Nigeria.
According to Rubio, the restrictions form part of a broader US response to “atrocities and violence” targeting Christians globally. “The United States is taking decisive action,” he wrote, emphasising that those found culpable will face travel consequences.
The roundtable is tied to an ongoing inquiry ordered by President Donald Trump, aimed at identifying individuals and organisations responsible for severe violations of religious freedom.
Last month, Chris Smith, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, introduced a resolution proposing visa bans and asset freezes against entities linked to such abuses. During Tuesday’s deliberations, Smith named the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) and the Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore among groups flagged for concern. He also urged the US government to list “Fulani-Ethnic Militias” operating in Benue and Plateau States as “entities of particular concern” under the International Religious Freedom Act.
In its response, MACBAN rejected the recommendations, insisting that the actions of criminal gangs should not be conflated with pastoralist organisations it described as law-abiding and equally affected by Nigeria’s worsening insecurity.
Smith, however, maintained that the Nigerian government has not done enough to curb abuses, accusing authorities of complicity in the alleged persecution.
Peryaplay? Man, I’ve been spinning those slots like crazy on peryaplay. Pretty decent payouts, and the site doesn’t lag like some others I’ve tried. Worth a shot if you’re looking for some action.
Alright, listen up! Hitclubvips is bringing the heat! Love the vibe and the exclusive feel. If you’re looking to up your game, this is your place. hitclubvips