In an update published by Daily Post, the United States Congress is set to hold a high-level joint hearing today, February 4, 2026, to examine the deteriorating security situation and religious freedom in Nigeria. Written testimonies released ahead of the session by the House Foreign Affairs Committee describe Nigeria as a “global flashpoint,” with witnesses warning that unresolved violence could lead to a deeper humanitarian crisis.
Former US Ambassador-at-Large Sam Brownback, in his prepared remarks, labeled the current situation as extremely perilous for faith communities. The hearing, titled “Defending Religious Freedom Around the World,” seeks to evaluate how foreign actors from countries like China and Russia are influencing Nigeria’s security environment and what role the US should play in mediating these tensions.
Supporting reports from Premium Times and The Guardian verify the international focus on Nigeria’s domestic affairs. Premium Times notes that the hearing will feature testimony from the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), which stated that “early warning signs of mass displacement are evident.” The Guardian quotes a diplomatic source who mentioned, “This hearing will likely shape future US military aid and sanctions policy toward Nigeria depending on the findings.”
Echotitbits take: This congressional hearing is a double-edged sword for the Nigerian government. While it brings international attention to the security crisis, it also risks placing Nigeria back on the “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) list, which could hamper diplomatic relations and military procurement. The government’s response to the allegations of religious persecution will be critical in the coming days.
Source: Daily Post – https://dailypost.ng/2026/02/04/genocide-us-congress-panels-hold-hearing-on-religious-freedom-raise-concerns-over-nigeria/, February 4, 2026
Photo credit: Daily Post
