United States Senator Ted Cruz has unveiled new legislative efforts aimed at confronting what he described as the growing enforcement of blasphemy and sharia laws in Nigeria, a move he believes will strengthen global religious freedom and accountability.
The announcement follows President Donald Trump’s recent designation of Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” over religious freedom violations, a decision that has drawn widespread reactions from both human rights advocates and political leaders in Washington.
In a post shared on X, Cruz expressed satisfaction with Trump’s action, describing it as “a major step toward protecting victims of religious persecution.”
He noted that the move reflects years of advocacy on behalf of Nigerian Christians who have faced targeted violence and legal oppression.
“I am deeply encouraged by President Trump’s leadership on this issue,” Cruz said. “For years, I’ve fought to end the persecution of Christians in Nigeria, and this legislation will ensure that those enabling such atrocities are finally held to account.”
The Texas lawmaker revealed that his proposed bill would back the Trump administration’s stance by imposing penalties on Nigerian officials who enforce or tolerate laws that criminalize religious expression.
He emphasized that the legislation seeks to discourage governments from weaponizing religion against their citizens.
According to him, the bill will “lock in” the recent designation and introduce additional sanctions targeting individuals behind the enforcement of blasphemy and sharia-related rulings.
Cruz added that he would work closely with Congress and the White House to push the measure through and ensure its full implementation.
Analysts say the proposal could heighten diplomatic tensions between Washington and Abuja, especially as Nigeria continues to face global scrutiny over cases linked to religious intolerance and the death sentences of individuals accused of blasphemy.
Cruz concluded that the effort was not merely about politics but about justice and human rights.
“No one should face violence or imprisonment simply for their faith,” he stressed.
“The United States must lead by example in defending religious freedom everywhere, and Nigeria is no exception.”