CPC Tag on Nigeria Will Not Harm Bilateral Relations — U.S.
A U.S. congressional delegation has assured that Nigeria’s designation as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) will not weaken bilateral relations, describing the tag as a temporary measure meant to encourage reform and dialogue.
The delegationled by Bill Huizenga held a two-day visit in Abuja, meeting with government officials, religious leaders, civil society organisations, and private sector representatives.
The visit followed President Donald Trump’s October designation of Nigeria as a CPC.
Huizenga said the mission was about “listening, learning, and holding frank conversations” regarding the circumstances behind the designation.
He added, “For me personally, I believe the CPC designation is warranted, but it is also meant to spur progress and internal conversations within Nigeria on how to better protect people of all faiths.”
He noted that discussions with Nigerian officials suggested the CPC designation had already encouraged renewed focus on addressing violence and strengthening the protection of religious freedom.
Huizenga acknowledged concerns over attacks in the Middle Belt while also highlighting significant violence affecting Muslim communities in the North-East and North-West.
“The core message is that all citizens, regardless of faith, must be protected and feel safe,” he said.
Other members of the delegation described the CPC designation as a temporary tool aimed at motivating positive change and noted it is subject to regular review.
A senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Keith Self, said the designation should be seen as an opportunity for deeper engagement rather than a breakdown in relations.
“This does not have to be a negative. It can be a positive starting point for a deeper and more honest relationship between the United States and Nigeria,” he said.
Drawing on his European experience, Self noted that Nigeria’s current challenges, including mass migration and security pressures, mirror issues several European countries have faced, which often strain democratic institutions.
Michael Baumgartner said the visit was intended to reassure vulnerable communities that their plight had not gone unnoticed. “I hope that the trip gives the Christian community in Nigeria hope that they’re not alone. Also, the world is watching the actions of the Nigerian government to make sure they’re safe,” he said.
Jefferson Shreve described the visit as an investment in Nigeria rather than an investigation. “This trip has been about listening and learning. We want to be helpful, and we want to see Nigeria succeed, because Africa cannot be successful unless Nigeria is successful,” he said.
The delegation said their findings would be reported to colleagues in Washington, with recommendations focusing on sustained engagement, increased dialogue, and targeted support rather than military intervention.
The lawmakers also reaffirmed bipartisan support in the U.S. Congress for a stable, prosperous Nigeria and pledged continued engagement in the months and years ahead.
OSUN DEFENDER earlier reported that Trump had threatened to deploy U.S. troops in Nigeria to target terrorists if the government failed to “move fast.”
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
