Story perspectives

Franklin Graham Urges Support for Persecuted Christians in Nigeria

11/5/2025

Summary

Story summary

Franklin Graham praised U.S. President Donald Trump for designating Nigeria a country of particular concern on religious freedom.
The designation follows reports of violence against Christians and more than 10,000 deaths since 2023 under Tinubu.
Tinubu's administration rejected the designation, saying Nigeria is not a nation of religious intolerance.
Graham emphasized the need for global support for persecuted Christians in Nigeria and beyond.

History

Historical Context

The International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA) was enacted in 1998 to address global religious persecution, establishing a framework for U.S. foreign policy. This law mandates annual reviews of countries' religious freedom, designating those with severe violations as "Countries of Particular Concern." Since 2023, Nigeria has faced significant violence against Christians, prompting discussions on U.S. aid and diplomatic relations under President Bola Tinubu's administration.

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Story summary

Franklin Graham praised U.S. President Donald Trump for designating Nigeria a country of particular concern on religious freedom.
The designation follows reports of violence against Christians and more than 10,000 deaths since 2023 under Tinubu.
Tinubu's administration rejected the designation, saying Nigeria is not a nation of religious intolerance.
Graham emphasized the need for global support for persecuted Christians in Nigeria and beyond.

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