The United States has announced a new policy aimed at individuals involved in violations of religious freedom, including those allegedly linked to violence in Nigeria.
The development was disclosed by Mark Walker, the US Principal Advisor for Global Religious Freedom, in a post shared on X on Friday.
According to him, the measure is a response to ongoing violence and targeted attacks in various regions.
The statement reads: “The United States is taking decisive action in response to the mass killings and violence against Christians by radical Islamic terrorists, Fulani ethnic militias, and other violent actors in Nigeria and beyond.”
He further explained that a new immigration restriction framework has been introduced under US law.
“A new policy under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act will allow the State Department to restrict visa issuance to individuals who have directed, authorized, significantly supported, participated in, or carried out violations of religious freedom and, where appropriate, their immediate family members.”
Walker also referenced President Donald Trump, noting his stance on the issue.
“As President Trump made clear, the “United States cannot stand by while such atrocities are happening in Nigeria, and numerous other countries.””
He added that the policy would not be limited to Nigeria alone.
“This policy will apply to Nigeria and any other governments or individuals engaged in violations of religious freedom” it said.
Mark Walker, who made the announcement, serves as the US Principal Advisor for Global Religious Freedom.
