US Lawmakers Open Hearing on Trump’s Redesignation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern
The United States House Subcommittee on Africa on Thursday commenced a public hearing to examine President Donald Trump’s recent decision to redesignate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC), a classification reserved for nations accused of severe violations of religious freedom.
The hearing brought together lawmakers, policy experts, and human rights advocates to review the implications of the redesignation, which places Nigeria under increased diplomatic scrutiny and could trigger possible sanctions or other restrictive measures.
In his opening remarks, the Subcommittee Chair noted that the review was necessary to ensure that US foreign policy decisions on Nigeria were “accurate, evidence-based, and aligned with American values of promoting religious freedom and human rights.”
Witnesses at the session presented varying perspectives, including concerns over rising sectarian violence, attacks by extremist groups, and alleged government shortcomings in protecting vulnerable communities. Others cautioned against broad classifications that may overlook Nigeria’s complex security landscape and ongoing reform efforts.
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The redesignation has already stirred significant debate within diplomatic and human rights circles, with Nigerian officials previously insisting that the country does not meet the threshold for such a designation.
The Subcommittee is expected to continue consultations before issuing recommendations to the US Congress and the State Department.
US Lawmakers Open Hearing on Trump’s Redesignation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern