A U.S. Congressional Delegation (CODEL) led by Rep. Bill Huizenga has clarified that Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) on religious freedom is intended to encourage reforms and constructive engagement, and will not weaken bilateral relations between the two countries.
Huizenga made the remarks on Sunday in Abuja at the conclusion of the delegation’s two-day visit to Nigeria, during which they met with government officials, religious leaders, civil society organisations, and private sector representatives.
The visit followed Nigeria’s re-designation as a CPC in October by U.S. President Donald Trump, over alleged threats to religious freedom in the country. Huizenga emphasised that the mission’s purpose was to “listen, learn, and hold frank conversations” on the issues that led to the designation.
“For me personally, I believe the CPC designation is warranted, but it is also meant to spur progress and internal conversations within Nigeria on how to better protect people of all faiths,” Huizenga said.
He noted that discussions with Nigerian officials suggested the designation had already prompted renewed focus on addressing violence and enhancing religious freedom protections. He acknowledged concerns raised by various groups over attacks in parts of the Middle Belt, while highlighting significant violence affecting Muslim communities in the North-East and North-West.
“The core message is that all citizens, regardless of faith, must be protected and feel safe,” Huizenga added.
Other members of the delegation described the CPC designation as a temporary measure designed to motivate positive change. Rep. Keith Self, senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, described it as an opportunity to deepen engagement rather than a breakdown in relations.
“This does not have to be a negative. It can be a positive starting point for a deeper and more honest relationship between the United States and Nigeria,” Self said, drawing parallels between Nigeria’s challenges and those faced by European countries, including mass migration and security pressures.
Rep. Michael Baumgartner explained that the visit was intended to reassure vulnerable communities that their plight had not gone unnoticed. Rep. Jefferson Shreve described the delegation’s efforts as an investment in Nigeria rather than an investigation.
The lawmakers said their findings would be reported to colleagues in Washington, with recommendations focused on sustained engagement, dialogue, and targeted support rather than military intervention.
They lauded the openness of Nigerian officials during meetings and expressed optimism that continued collaboration could yield tangible progress in addressing violence and strengthening democratic institutions. The delegation also reaffirmed bipartisan support in the U.S. Congress for a stable and prosperous Nigeria and pledged ongoing engagement in the months and years ahead.