Concerns over the safety of Christians in Nigeria resurfaced sharply on Friday as U.S. Congresswoman Nancy Mace issued a stark warning about what she described as escalating assaults on religious minorities in the West African nation.

Mace, a Republican representing South Carolina, said Nigeria has become “one of the deadliest places on earth for Christians,” accusing Washington of failing to respond adequately.

Mace Slams Biden Administration for Policy Shift

In her statement released on November 14, 2025, Mace criticized the Biden administration for removing Nigeria from the U.S. Country of Particular Concern (CPC) list—an official designation reserved for nations that tolerate or commit severe violations of religious freedom.

“President Biden removed Nigeria from the CPC list, and that decision continues to trouble me,” she said, arguing that the security situation has deteriorated since the reversal.

She contrasted the administration’s stance with that of former President Donald Trump, praising him for what she called a more assertive defense of global religious liberty.

“President Trump is working to correct those missteps. 45/47 remains one of the most consequential presidents in American history,” she added.

Trump Reinstates Nigeria as CPC, Issues Stark Warning

Her comments landed just hours after Trump, now seeking to reestablish his foreign policy doctrines, announced via Truth Social that he had formally restored Nigeria to the CPC list.

Trump said Christianity in Nigeria faces an “existential threat,” blaming “radical Islamist militants” for mass killings.

He went further, warning that the U.S. could consider military action if attacks on Christians continue.

“I am hereby making Nigeria a COUNTRY OF PARTICULAR CONCERN — but that is only the beginning,” Trump wrote, adding that the United States “may have to step in” should the violence persist.

Huizenga: Trump’s Words are Frustration, Not a War Plan

Despite Trump’s forceful rhetoric, Republican Congressman Bill Huizenga urged caution, telling Arise News that talk of military intervention should not be taken literally.

“I do not see military action in Nigeria as a priority,” Huizenga said. “I don’t envision a surprise attack, nor do I believe a military response is on the table.”

Instead, he suggested that Trump’s comments were motivated by frustration over ongoing violence rather than any concrete plan for force.

Sanctions, Not Soldiers

Huizenga believes Trump, known for unpredictable diplomatic maneuvers but reluctant to enter new wars, is more likely to apply economic pressure.

“Targeted sanctions on individuals and groups fueling violence would be the most effective first step,” he said.

Also Read: Ibadan Gears Up for PDP Convention as Organisers Finalise Setup

According to him, sanctions could disrupt the financial pipelines enabling extremist networks.

“Cutting off access to money and international travel can weaken the operations of those responsible. We still don’t fully know who is bankrolling these attacks, but economic pressure will have an impact,” he added.

Broader Debate Renewed in Washington

The contrasting views from Mace and Huizenga reflect a growing debate in Washington about how the U.S. should respond to reports of worsening religious persecution in Nigeria.

As Trump revives his foreign policy agenda, the issue is once again gaining prominence—raising questions about how far the U.S. might go in addressing religious freedoms abroad.