U.S. lawmakers have introduced a resolution calling for visa bans and asset freezes against two Nigerian herdsmen organizations, citing their alleged role in religiously motivated violence targeting Christian communities.
The resolution, led by Representative Christopher Smith of New Jersey, singles out the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria and Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore. It urges the State Department to designate Fulani-ethnic militias operating in Nigeria’s Middle Belt as “Entities of Particular Concern” under the International Religious Freedom Act.
Lawmakers say the move is a response to years of deadly attacks in Benue and Plateau states, where armed groups have been accused of targeting Christian villages. “The United States must stand against impunity and support victims of religious persecution,” Smith said.
The resolution also commends President Donald Trump for re-designating Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern,” a classification reserved for nations that tolerate or commit severe violations of religious freedom.
While Nigerian officials have not formally responded to the proposal, previous statements from the government have dismissed similar concerns as exaggerated and politically motivated. Civil society groups in Nigeria have warned that blanket sanctions could inflame ethnic tensions and undermine peace efforts.
The Miyetti Allah groups, which represent pastoralist communities, have long denied involvement in violence and argue that they are being scapegoated in a broader conflict over land, resources, and identity.
If adopted, the resolution would mark a rare instance of U.S. sanctions targeting non-state actors in Africa and could reshape diplomatic relations between Washington and Abuja at a time of growing scrutiny over Nigeria’s internal security challenges.
