BREAKING: U.S. Imposes Visa Restrictions On Nigerians Accused Of Religious Persecution

Washington, D.C.– The United States government has announced new visa restrictions targeting Nigerians accused of undermining religious freedom, signaling a sharp response to growing concerns over attacks on Christians in Nigeria.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the restrictions would apply to individuals who “knowingly direct, authorize, fund, support, or carry out violations of religious freedom.”

Rubio described the move as part of “decisive action in response to the atrocities and violence against Christians in Nigeria and around the world.”

The U.S. State Department said the visa policy will not only affect Nigerian officials and individuals but also extend to other governments and persons globally who persecute people for their religious beliefs.

The announcement comes amid heightened international scrutiny over escalating attacks on Christian communities in Nigeria, particularly in the northern regions, where religious violence has claimed thousands of lives in recent years.

He said, “The United States is taking decisive action in response to the atrocities and violence against Christians in Nigeria and around the world. The @StateDept will restrict U.S. visas for those who knowingly direct, authorize, fund, support, or carry out violations of religious freedom. This visa policy applies to Nigeria and other governments or individuals that persecute people for their religious beliefs.”