By Danjuma Amodu | February 11, 2026
The US Congress is considering the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026, which aims to designate Fulani militia as terrorists and address Christian persecution in Nigeria.
The bill, introduced by Rep. Riley Moore, also lists Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso as one of the individuals involved in terrorist activities.
The proposed legislation mandates the Secretary of State to submit an annual report on US efforts to combat Christian persecution and consider designating Fulani ethnic militias as Foreign Terrorist Organizations.
It cites atrocities committed by Boko Haram, ISWAP, and Fulani militant groups, including mass killings, kidnappings, and village destruction.
The bill has garnered support from several US lawmakers, including Rep. Chris Smith, who emphasized Nigeria’s “blatant denial” of religious persecution.
The legislation is expected to move through the House quickly and gain widespread support.
The background to this bill is rooted in the ongoing violence and persecution of Christians in Nigeria. Since 2009, Boko Haram, ISWAP, and Fulani militant groups have committed atrocities, resulting in thousands of deaths and displacements. Christians have been disproportionately affected, with estimates suggesting 50,000 to 125,000 martyred and over 19,000 churches damaged or attacked between 2009 and 2025.
The US has been engaged with Nigeria on security and counterterrorism efforts, including a recent security framework agreement and consideration of deploying troops to aid in combating terrorism. This bill aims to address these issues and promote religious freedom in Nigeria.
The inclusion of Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso in the bill has sparked interest, given his prominent role in Nigerian politics. The bill’s sponsors argue that those responsible for violence and persecution must be held accountable.
The Nigerian government has yet to comment on the bill, but the US move has been seen as a significant development in the country’s efforts to address terrorism and promote religious freedom.
