The introduction of a new United States sanctions bill targeting alleged religious freedom violations in Nigeria has reignited debate over the fine line between human rights advocacy and foreign interference.
The proposed Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026, introduced by Republican Congressman Riley Moore of West Virginia and co-sponsored by Rep. Chris Smith of New Jersey, seeks to impose visa bans and asset freezes on individuals and groups accused of religious persecution. The measures would be enforced under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act, with the US Departments of State and Treasury mandated to identify those responsible for violations.
International relations expert, Khalid Iliyasu Dauda, described the bill as consistent with Washington’s strategy of applying targeted pressure without direct confrontation.
“The proposed legislation mirrors a well-established US strategy of using targeted sanctions to influence elite behaviour and signal concern over religious violence,” said Dauda, a lecturer at Skyline University.
He noted that the effectiveness of the sanctions would depend on credible evidence, fair targeting, and constructive engagement with Nigerian authorities, warning that without these, the initiative could remain largely symbolic.
The draft legislation names former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Fulani-ethnic nomadic militias, the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), and Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore. It also directs the US Secretary of State to determine whether certain Fulani militias qualify for designation as Foreign Terrorist Organisations. Additionally, the bill mandates humanitarian intervention in Nigeria’s Middle Belt through faith-based and non-governmental organisations funded by both Washington and Abuja.
Despite sovereignty concerns, Dauda does not foresee a breakdown in bilateral ties.
“US–Nigeria relations are built on deep strategic foundations,” he said. “What is more likely is a shift toward a more conditional and pragmatic partnership, characterised by closer scrutiny and periodic tensions rather than a collapse in relations.”
As of the time of filing this report, Kwankwaso has not publicly commented on the proposed legislation.
