United States lawmakers have introduced new legislation aimed at increasing accountability for human rights abuses in Nigeria.
The legislation also includes potential sanctions against Fulani militias and former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso.
According to the lawmakers, the proposed legislation seeks to strengthen the impact of previous US actions in Nigeria.
“Today, I am proud to introduce the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026 with Rep. Chris Smith,” US Representative Riley Moore stated on 𝕏.
Moore, a Republican, emphasised the US commitment to global religious freedom, adding, “The U.S. is a Christian nation. As such, we must stand with persecuted Christians around the world.”
“Our legislation will build upon the momentum of President Trump designating Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern and the recent US-Nigeria security framework agreement,” he said, referencing past measures targeting religious persecution and security cooperation.
According to Sahara Reporters, legal experts and advocates have highlighted the bill’s focus on accountability for specific actors involved in religiously motivated violence.
Senior Counsel for Global Religious Freedom, Sean Nelson, praised the bipartisan effort, noting, “Powerhouse team of Rep. Chris Smith & Rep Riley Moore today introduced a new bill on religious freedom in Nigeria increasing accountability measures, incl recs for sanctions against Fulani militias and former Kano State gov Kwankwaso, who intro’d Sharia criminal law there.”
The legislation comes amid growing international attention on the rise of sectarian violence in Nigeria.
The bill specifically recommends sanctions against armed groups accused of perpetrating violence and government figures who have enacted or supported laws that critics say infringe on religious freedoms.
The Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026 is expected to undergo committee review in the US House of Representatives, with supporters urging quick consideration given the urgency of ongoing religious freedom concerns.
