Former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has voiced strong support for President Donald Trump’s designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) — a move that has stirred both diplomatic and public debate across Africa.
In a statement shared via his verified social media handle, Pompeo said Trump’s position reflects “a long-overdue recognition of the systemic persecution Christians have faced in Nigeria for years.” He noted that the U.S. cannot turn a blind eye to ongoing reports of targeted attacks, kidnappings, and killings of Christians across various northern states.
Pompeo, who had also designated Nigeria under the CPC list during his tenure in 2020, said the decision should be seen as a call for accountability, not hostility.
“When faith is under fire, freedom is under threat. The U.S. must always stand with the persecuted,”
— Mike Pompeo stated.
The Nigerian government, however, has dismissed Trump’s and Pompeo’s remarks, describing them as “misleading and politically motivated.” The Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated that Nigeria remains a secular state committed to protecting religious freedom for all citizens.
Meanwhile, religious groups in Nigeria and abroad have reacted sharply, with Christian associations welcoming the move while Muslim organizations condemned it as a “misrepresentation of Nigeria’s realities.”
Observers say the development could reshape diplomatic relations between Washington and Abuja, especially as Trump’s comments continue to dominate global headlines.