US Congressman Bill Huizenga has criticized the Nigerian government’s handling of ongoing attacks on Christians, urging Washington to impose targeted economic sanctions rather than considering military intervention.
In an exclusive interview with Arise News in Washington, DC, Huizenga—one of the lawmakers supporting President Donald Trump’s decision to redesignate Nigeria as a country of particular concern—said he was “shocked” by Trump’s recent comments suggesting a possible US invasion, but maintained that allegations of religious persecution must be addressed urgently.
Speaking at the Rayburn House office building, Huizenga warned that Nigeria risks repeating tragedies similar to those witnessed in Rwanda and South Sudan if decisive action is not taken.
“We were too late with Rwanda, we were too late with South Sudan. Let’s not be too late again in this case,” he said.
The congressman highlighted the experiences of victims of attacks carried out by Fulani militants and radicalized Islamist groups, noting that both Christians and moderate Muslims have been attacked. He said he had personally spoken to religious leaders and villagers who described being attacked in their homes and “feeling very attacked.”
In response to Trump’s viral claim that Christianity faces an existential threat in Nigeria, Huizenga clarified that he does not foresee an actual military attack.
“I don’t imagine a surprise attack or a military response,” he said. “Economic pressure and sanctions on individuals and organizations would be more effective. Sanctions really cut off the flow of money and travel. We don’t know who finances these operations, but economic pressure will have a positive impact.”
Huizenga also criticized what he described as the Nigerian government’s dismissive and inadequate response to the violence.
“They need to demonstrate what they are doing to protect not only Christians but all citizens,” he said. “Their response has been, ‘There really is no problem.’ Well, I think so.”
He added that the current insecurity is undermining Nigeria’s economic growth and discouraging foreign investment.
“When you cannot guarantee the safety of workers or companies, you have a problem,” he said. “It is in Nigeria’s best interest to address the root causes of this violence.”
Huizenga reiterated that his growing frustration with Nigerian authorities had prompted the introduction of new resolutions in the US Congress, stressing that the international community must hold Nigeria accountable to prevent further atrocities.
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