United States Senator Ted Cruz has announced plans to introduce legislation aimed at holding Nigerian officials accountable for enforcing Sharia and blasphemy laws, which he says have fueled the persecution of Christians and other religious minorities in the West African nation.
In a statement shared on social media, the Texas Republican praised President Donald Trump for designating Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” over religious freedom violations, calling the move a “critical step” toward changing the behavior of Nigerian authorities.
“I am deeply gratified to President Trump for making this determination,” Cruz said. “I have fought for years to counter the slaughter and persecution of Christians in Nigeria, and this year introduced legislation that will lock in the designation made today.”
Cruz’s proposed bill seeks to implement additional measures to address human rights abuses in Nigeria, with a specific focus on officials who promote or enforce laws criminalizing blasphemy and imposing Sharia-based punishments.
“My legislation implements additional steps, including targeting those who implement blasphemy and Sharia laws in Nigeria,” Cruz stated. “I am committed to working with the administration and my colleagues to advance my bill and implement these necessary measures.”
The senator commended President Trump’s leadership on the issue, describing the designation as “a great one” and emphasizing that the legislation would help “lock in” protections for Christians and other vulnerable groups.
Nigeria has faced international scrutiny in recent years over its handling of religious freedom, with several high-profile cases involving blasphemy charges and harsh punishments under Sharia law in northern states. Human rights advocates have repeatedly called for reforms and greater protections for religious minorities.
Cruz’s legislation is expected to reignite debate over U.S. foreign policy tools for promoting religious freedom and human rights abroad, particularly in countries with complex legal and cultural frameworks.
