A US congressional report has recommended blocking Nigeria’s beef and cattle-related exports as leverage to compel armed Fulani herdsmen and other groups to disarm amid ongoing violence and attacks on Christian communities in the Middle Belt.
The proposal features in the joint report “Ending the Persecution of Christians in Nigeria,” submitted to the White House by the House Appropriations and Foreign Affairs committees.
It describes Nigeria as “the deadliest place in the world to be a Christian,” citing tens of thousands of deaths from well-armed Fulani militias, terrorist groups, and related clashes that have destroyed churches, schools, and displaced communities.
Key recommendation:
Washington should “review and use points of leverage” to force disarmament, including by restricting exports of beef and cattle products to major African markets such as Ivory Coast, Ghana, South Africa, and Senegal.
The aim is to disrupt potential financial flows or illicit revenue tied to pastoral networks accused of fueling farmer-herder conflicts, banditry, and religious violence.
Other proposals include:
Withholding select US aid until verifiable action reduces violence against Christians.
Targeted sanctions, visa bans, and designations for perpetrators of religious persecution.
Technical aid for disarmament, demobilization, reintegration programs, and improved security forces.
Support for ranching reforms and land solutions.
Urging Nigeria to repeal Sharia-based criminal codes and anti-blasphemy laws.
Shifting from Russian to US military hardware.
Nigeria’s beef export market remains limited internationally, though domestic and regional trade is significant for pastoral livelihoods. Critics warn broad restrictions could harm innocent herders and regional food supply chains more than armed actors.
The report reflects growing US frustration with Nigeria’s security progress under persistent threats from Boko Haram/ISWAP in the northeast, banditry in the northwest, and Middle Belt clashes.
No official Nigerian government response has been detailed yet, but the suggestions could strain bilateral ties if implemented.
The document was delivered following a February 23, 2026, meeting with White House officials.
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