Trump’s remarks ignite hope for Nigerian Christians – but reality on the ground is complex

Edward Pentin, National Catholic Register

Monday, November 10, 2025

President Trump said Christianity is “facing an existential threat” in the West African nation, adding that “thousands and thousands of Christians are being killed” and that “radical Islamists are responsible for this mass slaughter.” Nigeria is now a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC), meaning it would henceforth be held responsible for particularly severe violations of religious freedom under the 1998 U.S. International Religious Freedom Act. That change, says Robert Royal, “should pressure the government of Nigeria to do better. Sometimes a threat can deter bad actors.”