Vicky Hartzler, Chair of the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), stated that the US government plans to collaborate with Nigeria in apprehending those responsible for religious violence, safeguarding Christian communities, and freeing those held captive.

Hartzler released this statement on Monday, November 3, 2025, in response to former President Donald Trump’s designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern.” This label is applied to countries that violate religious freedoms.

As reported by The Punch, Hartzler’s recommendations played a role in Trump’s decision to categorize Nigeria as a nation known for religious persecution.

According to The Punch, Hartzler’s recommendation influenced Trump’s decision to blacklist Nigeria as a country notorious for religious persecution.

Quoting her words, Hartzler said,

“USCIRF applauds President Trump for addressing the religious freedom crisis in Nigeria. The US government can now work with Nigeria to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable, people of faith are protected, and hostages are rescued.”

USCIRF Vice Chair Asif Mahmood reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to ensuring the Trump administration implements executive actions against Nigeria, which he described as a serial violator of religious freedom since 2009.

Mahmood added that the commission would continue monitoring developments and support measures that promote justice and protect religious minorities.