US Imposes Visa Restrictions on Nigerians over Religious Freedom Violations

By Alabidun Shuaib AbdulRahman

The United States government on Wednesday announced visa restrictions targeting individuals involved in violations of religious freedom in Nigeria, a move that may also extend to their immediate family members.

In a statement titled “Combating Egregious Anti-Christian Violence in Nigeria and Globally”, the U.S. Department of State said the measures were introduced in response to mass killings and attacks on Christians by radical Islamic terrorists, Fulani militias, and other violent actors in Nigeria and beyond.

The statement noted that under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, the State Department now has the authority to deny visas to individuals who have “directed, authorised, significantly supported, participated in, or carried out violations of religious freedom.”

Citizen FM learnt the restrictions could also be applied to the immediate family members of the implicated individuals.

The U.S. policy cited President Donald Trump’s remarks, emphasising that America “cannot stand by while such atrocities are happening in Nigeria, and numerous other countries.”

It is intended to apply to Nigeria and other governments or individuals implicated in religious freedom violations.

The announcement comes amid growing international concern over escalating attacks on religious communities in Nigeria, including targeted killings, kidnappings, and destruction of property attributed to armed groups.

The State Department said the visa restrictions are part of broader efforts to hold perpetrators accountable and encourage governments worldwide to safeguard religious minorities.