Two United States lawmakers have introduced a bill seeking to strengthen accountability for alleged religious freedom and human rights violations in Nigeria, including provisions recommending potential sanctions against armed groups and certain public figures.
The proposed legislation, titled the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026, was introduced by Congressman Riley Moore in collaboration with Representative Chris Smith.
Moore disclosed the development in a post on X, stating: “Today, I am proud to introduce the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026 with Rep. Chris Smith.”
According to the sponsors, the bill is designed to reinforce previous US measures concerning Nigeria and to expand accountability mechanisms related to religious freedom concerns.
The draft legislation reportedly includes recommendations for possible sanctions against armed Fulani militia groups accused of violence, as well as former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, in connection with policies critics argue affect religious freedoms.
Moore emphasised the US government’s longstanding position on global religious liberty, stating that the bill builds on prior actions, including Nigeria’s previous designation as a Country of Particular Concern and recent US–Nigeria security engagements.
Also commenting, Sean Nelson, Senior Counsel for Global Religious Freedom, described the bill as a significant step toward increasing accountability, noting that it recommends sanctions against groups and officials linked to actions perceived as infringing on religious rights.
The introduction of the bill comes amid heightened international scrutiny over sectarian violence and religious tensions in parts of Nigeria.
If passed, the legislation would empower US authorities to consider sanctions against individuals and groups found to be complicit in religious persecution or human rights abuses, while also shaping future diplomatic and security engagements between both countries.
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