Rep. Chris Smith, a Republican from New Jersey, has introduced legislation outlining how the United States should respond to the ongoing persecution of Christians in Nigeria. This follows President Donald Trump’s decision to designate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern.
In a press release issued on November 5, Smith said, “Christians in Nigeria live under the constant threat of murder, kidnapping, rape, and torture by radical Islamists, such as Boko Haram and Fulani terrorists.”
The resolution, known as H. Res. 860, supports Trump’s actions and instructs the U.S. State Department to take several steps aimed at pressuring the Nigerian government to better protect Christians. These measures include imposing sanctions and new conditions on foreign aid.
The resolution also calls for immediate humanitarian assistance to faith-based groups in Nigeria and cooperation with the Treasury Department to impose sanctions and visa bans on those responsible for religious violence. Additionally, it seeks to tie U.S. assistance to improvements in religious freedom protections within Nigeria. The resolution reaffirms America’s commitment to defending human rights globally.
“It is well past time that the United States holds the Nigerian government responsible for its inability — or unwillingness — to fully confront and combat the unchecked, widespread religious persecution occurring within its borders,” Smith stated.
The legislation is cosponsored by Representatives Bill Huizenga of Michigan, Gus Bilirakis of Florida, and Maria Elvira Salazar of Florida.
Chris Smith has represented New Jersey’s 4th district in Congress since 1981 after succeeding Frank Thompson (https://catholicvote.org/rep-chris-smith-unveils-plan-to-defend-persecuted-christians-in-nigeria/). He was born in Rahway, New Jersey in 1953 and currently lives in Manchester Township. Smith graduated from The College of New Jersey with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1975.
