- Huizenga said the CPC label was meant to stimulate honest conversations within Nigeria on how to strengthen protections for citizens
- Huizenga maintained that safeguarding lives irrespective of belief remains the central issue
- Congressman Keith Self said the designation presents an opportunity to strengthen dialogue
The United States has clarified that Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) over religious freedom is intended to encourage reforms and deeper engagement, not to damage diplomatic ties between both nations.
Eko Hot Blog reports that a U.S. Congressional Delegation led by Congressman Bill Huizenga stated this on Sunday in Abuja during a press briefing marking the end of their two-day visit to Nigeria.
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The delegation explained that the visit followed extensive meetings with Nigerian government officials, faith leaders, civil society groups and private sector stakeholders to better understand the concerns that led to Nigeria’s reclassification.
Huizenga said the CPC label was meant to stimulate honest conversations within Nigeria on how to strengthen protections for citizens of all religious backgrounds, stressing that it should be seen as a catalyst for improvement.
According to him, engagements held during the visit indicated that the designation has already renewed focus on tackling insecurity and addressing faith-based violence across different regions of the country.
He acknowledged reports of attacks in parts of the Middle Belt, while also noting that Muslim communities in the North-East and North-West have equally suffered severe violence.
Huizenga maintained that safeguarding lives irrespective of belief remains the central issue, adding that the United States has both moral and strategic interests in Nigeria’s stability.
Other members of the delegation described the CPC status as a temporary measure subject to review, aimed at motivating positive change rather than punishing the country.
Congressman Keith Self said the designation presents an opportunity to strengthen dialogue and cooperation between both nations, not a rupture in relations.
The lawmakers said their findings would be relayed to colleagues in Washington, with recommendations focused on sustained engagement, dialogue and targeted support instead of military intervention.
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