The United States government has announced a major funding programme worth $3.5 million (about N5 billion) to support the monitoring and documentation of religious freedom violations in Nigeria.
The initiative, unveiled by the US Department of State’s Office of International Religious Freedom, aims to improve the reporting of attacks and abuses linked to religion and belief across the country.
According to the funding notice, the project will focus on gathering evidence, supporting accountability efforts, and preserving records of incidents affecting religious communities.
Why The US Is Taking Action
The US government said violence carried out by groups such as Boko Haram, ISWAP, and other armed actors has continued to impact both Christians and Muslims in different parts of Nigeria.
The programme is expected to support organisations working to document cases of religious violence, human rights abuses, and attacks on faith communities.
US officials also expressed concern about what they described as weak responses to some incidents, warning that a lack of accountability can encourage further violence.
Focus On Nigeria’s Middle Belt
The proposed project will pay special attention to Nigeria’s Middle Belt region, which has witnessed recurring clashes and security challenges over the years.
Interested organisations are expected to identify at least four states where monitoring and reporting activities will be carried out.
The programme is open to both local and international organisations, universities, and other qualified institutions capable of carrying out the work.
FG Rejects Religious Persecution Claims
The announcement comes months after former US President Donald Trump designated Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged religious freedom violations.
However, the Nigerian government has consistently rejected claims of religious persecution, maintaining that insecurity affects Nigerians of all faiths and backgrounds.
Authorities have also reiterated their commitment to working with international partners on security reforms and counterterrorism efforts.
Applications for the funding programme are expected to close in July 2026.
Source: Adapted from information released by the United States Department of State, Office of International Religious Freedom.
