Summary
The U.S. State Department expressed concern about violence against Christians and other groups in Nigeria, especially due to threats from terrorist groups like Boko Haram. The Nigerian government rejects claims that Christians are being specifically targeted for attacks. The U.S. Congress has discussed declaring Nigeria a "Country of Particular Concern" due to violations of religious freedom, but no update has been made.
Key Facts
- The U.S. State Department is worried about violence against Christians in Nigeria.
- Boko Haram and ISIS-West Africa are identified as threats in northern Nigeria.
- The Nigerian government denies that violence is driven by religious bias.
- Nigeria is not listed as a "Country of Particular Concern" despite calls from the U.S. Congress.
- Open Doors ranks Nigeria as the 7th most dangerous place for Christians.
- Since 2009, jihadists reportedly killed over 125,000 Christians in Nigeria.
- Over 19,000 churches have been destroyed in the same period according to a Nigerian NGO.
- The U.S. government has communicated concerns to Nigerian officials.
