US Bill Targets Fula people Militias in Nigeria
Analysis based on 10 articles · First reported Feb 11, 2026 · Last updated Feb 11, 2026
The introduction of this bill could lead to increased geopolitical tensions between the United States and Nigeria, potentially affecting foreign aid, trade relations, and investment in Nigeria. The possible designation of Fula people militias as an FTO could also impact regional stability and security efforts.
Republican lawmakers in the United States===United States House of Representatives have introduced the 'Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026'. Sponsored by Riley Moore and co-sponsored by Chris Smith and Tom Cole, the bill seeks to designate Fula people ethnic militias as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) due to alleged religious violence in Nigeria. It mandates the United States===United States Department of State to assess the FTO criteria for Fula people and submit annual reports to Congress on efforts to address religious persecution in Nigeria. The legislation also calls for a review of US assistance to Nigeria to ensure it does not inadvertently enable religious persecution. The bill highlights incidents of mass killings, kidnappings, and destruction of churches, estimating significant Christian casualties between 2009 and 2025. This move builds on previous actions by Donald Trump's administration regarding Nigeria's status as a Country of Particular Concern.
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