The United States Congress on Tuesday introduced a new bill that could lead to visa bans and asset freezes against some Nigerians, including former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, over alleged religious freedom violations in Nigeria. The proposed law, known as the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026, was presented by Congressman Riley Moore and co-sponsored by Congressman Chris Smith. The move is part of ongoing efforts by US lawmakers to respond to reports of religious violence in parts of Nigeria.
According to details of the bill, the proposed law directs the US government to impose targeted sanctions on individuals and groups accused of involvement in religious rights abuses. Those listed in the legislation include Kwankwaso, Fulani ethnic nomad militias, the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, and Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore. The sanctions may include visa restrictions and freezing of assets under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act.
The bill also mandates the US Secretary of State to review whether certain Fulani militias operating in Nigeria meet the legal requirements to be designated as foreign terrorist organisations under American law. In addition, it calls for humanitarian support to affected communities, especially in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, through faith-based and non-governmental organisations. The assistance is expected to be jointly funded by both the United States and the Nigerian government.
The legislation follows previous actions taken by the US government regarding Nigeria’s religious freedom record. In late 2025, President Donald Trump redesignated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern over allegations of severe religious freedom violations. That classification allows the US government to apply diplomatic and economic measures. The Nigerian government has, however, rejected claims that the country’s security crisis is rooted in religion, maintaining that the violence is driven by broader security challenges.
Security concerns in Nigeria have also led to increased cooperation between Abuja and Washington. In December 2025, the United States carried out air operations against Islamic State-linked militants in northwest Nigeria in coordination with Nigerian authorities. The US has also expanded military training and support for Nigerian security forces as part of joint counter-terrorism efforts.
The introduction of the new bill signals continued attention from US lawmakers on religious violence in Nigeria. If passed, it would require closer monitoring of Nigeria’s actions in addressing religious freedom issues and prosecuting those accused of carrying out attacks.
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