US Lawmakers Target Nigerian Figures, Groups With Fresh Sanctions Bill Over Religious Freedom

Story : Written by Myra February 11,2026
Senior US Republicans have unveiled a new bill that could see prominent Nigerian political figures and organisations hit with visa bans and asset freezes over alleged violations of religious freedom.
The proposed legislation, known as the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026, was introduced on Tuesday by Congressman Riley Moore of West Virginia, with support from Representative Chris Smith of New Jersey.
Among those named is Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano State, who may face sanctions under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act if the bill becomes law. The measures include travel restrictions and the freezing of overseas assets.
The draft law also references Fulani-linked nomadic militias and groups such as the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) and Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore. It further mandates the US Secretary of State to review whether some Fulani militias qualify for designation as Foreign Terrorist Organisations under US legislation.
Beyond sanctions, the bill proposes increased humanitarian support for communities affected by violence, particularly in Nigeria’s Middle Belt. It recommends joint funding by the United States and Nigeria, with aid channelled through trusted faith-based bodies and non-governmental organisations.
Moore said the initiative builds on earlier US actions, including Nigeria’s past listing as a “Country of Particular Concern” over religious freedom and ongoing security cooperation between both countries.
The move comes as Nigeria faces heightened global attention over persistent insecurity, especially deadly clashes in the Middle Belt and parts of the north. While US lawmakers argue the bill aims to enforce accountability and protect vulnerable groups, Nigerian authorities insist the violence is not purely religious, citing criminal activity, land disputes and long-standing communal tensions as key drivers.