American Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVID) has expressed appreciation to U.S. lawmakers over their stance on alleged persecution of Christians in Nigeria, while urging Washington to support the creation of a sovereign safe zone for affected communities.
In a statement signed by its President, Chief Dr. Sylvester Onyia, and Secretary, Dr. Godson Obiagwu, the group commended members of the U.S. Congress for what it described as “courageous leadership” in addressing violence against Christians in Nigeria.
AVID specifically acknowledged the roles of Tom Cole, Mario Diaz-Balart, Brian Mast, and Chris Smith, as well as the United States House Committee on Appropriations and the United States House Committee on Foreign Affairs, for their bipartisan engagement on the issue.
The group referenced a recent report presented to the White House which described Nigeria as “the deadliest place in the world to be a Christian,” citing incidents of killings, kidnappings, and destruction of churches and schools.
AVID also praised calls for the repeal of Sharia codes and anti-blasphemy laws in parts of Nigeria, alleging that such laws have been used to suppress religious minorities and undermine fundamental freedoms.
Beyond commendation, the organization called on the U.S. government to support the establishment of a sovereign safe zone for what it termed “Judeo-Christians” in Nigeria. It further advocated for restructuring measures that would enable persecuted communities to live and practice their faith without fear.
According to the group, such steps would align with American principles of religious liberty, self-determination, and the protection of vulnerable populations.
AVID stated that it remains ready to provide additional information, veteran perspectives, or testimony to assist U.S. policymakers in addressing the situation.
The Nigerian government has previously maintained that insecurity in the country is driven largely by terrorism, banditry, and criminality rather than religious persecution, and has pledged continued efforts to restore peace across affected regions.
