By Godstime Simon
The U.S. Secretary of State Department, Marco Rubio, has announced a new policy restricting the issuance of visas to individuals linked to violence against Christians in Nigeria.
According to a press release issued on December 3, 2025, the United States is taking decisive action in response to mass killings and attacks carried out by radical Islamic terrorists, Fulani ethnic militias, and other violent groups in Nigeria.
In announcing the policy, Rubio stated that visas would be withheld as part of efforts to address the ongoing violence. “The United States will restrict the issuance of visas to individuals tied to the violence perpetrated against Christians in Nigeria, and we will not rest until the mass killings and violence by radical Islamic terrorists, Fulani ethnic militias, and other violent actors in Nigeria and beyond are stopped,” he said.
He further explained that, under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, the State Department will deny visas to individuals who have directed, authorised, significantly supported, participated in, or carried out violations of religious freedom. Where appropriate, their immediate family members will also be affected.
Rubio cited former President Donald Trump’s stance on the issue, noting: “As President Trump made clear, the United States cannot stand by while such atrocities are happening in Nigeria and numerous other countries. This policy will apply to Nigeria and to any governments or individuals engaged in violations of religious freedom.”
The press release also referenced recent attacks, including the kidnapping of hundreds of Nigerian Catholic school children by gunmen, urging stronger international condemnation of such acts.
President Trump has previously spoken out against the violence targeting Christians in Nigeria, even threatening to withdraw aid if the attacks continue. “I’m really angry about it,” Trump told Fox News Radio last month. “What’s happening in Nigeria is a disgrace.”
