A Global Call to Action on Nigeria

A moral emergency and a strategic threat, Nigeria’s persecution crisis requires direct and decisive confrontation by international partners through a coordinated strategy. Now is the time to act: urge the U.S. and international bodies to promptly reinstate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern under religious freedom frameworks. Press for greater diplomatic leverage and targeted sanctions on institutions and officials who enable persecution. Urge legislatures in the U.S., Europe, and other democracies to introduce and champion bills and resolutions demanding reform.

At the multilateral level, the United Nations must move from words to action. Issuing statements condemning violence is not the same as supporting the persecuted. Highlighting the targeting of Christians and religious minorities in Nigeria and prioritizing protection for internally displaced persons is the first step to forging a path for their return home.

Establishing protective missions by appointing a dedicated envoy for religious freedom in West Africa would further coordinate efforts, elevating the crisis on the global agenda while maintaining pressure on Nigeria’s government to act.

The urgency of this crisis cannot be overstated, as every month of inaction allows extremist groups to dig their claws deeper, expand their reach, recruit more child soldiers, and hoard and exploit Nigeria’s mineral wealth to fund terror networks. Small victories exist, such as the recent acquittal of Christian mother Rhoda Jatau from blasphemy charges. These wins demonstrate that advocacy and sustained pressure are effective. Yet such progress remains fragile and insufficient to adequately address the ongoing tragedy. Immediate, coordinated action from policymakers, civil society, and the international community is essential to truly confront and resolve this ongoing crisis.

The persecution of Christians in Nigeria is a defining test of the world’s willingness to defend faith, freedom, and human dignity against religious genocide in the 21st century. Losing momentum now would threaten us all, emboldening extremist forces and abandoning millions of innocent souls to violence.