US lawmakers to Trump: Prioritise development financing in Nigeria’s middle belt
United States lawmakers have asked President Donald Trump to prioritise investments by the International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) in Nigeria, particularly in the middle belt.
The recommendation is contained in a congressional report titled ‘Ending the Persecution of Christians in Nigeria’, released by the joint house committees on appropriations and foreign affairs.
The document was submitted to the White House on Monday.
The legislators said the report’s findings followed a comprehensive investigation that included interviews with expert witnesses, a hearing and roundtable, on-the-ground assessments through bipartisan congressional delegations to Nigeria, and a close partnership with the Trump administration.
The lawmakers urged the US government to implement the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2026, to support a range of interventions in the West African country, including “US Development Finance Corporation investments in Nigeria, especially in the Middle Belt”.
The middle belt, comprising several north-central states, has for years witnessed recurring armed group attacks, banditry and communal violence.
The congressional report described Nigeria as one of the most dangerous places in the world for Christians, citing attacks by armed militias and terrorist groups, destruction of churches and schools, and mass displacement.
The lawmakers said economic investments — alongside security cooperation — are critical to stabilising affected communities.
The legislators also proposed increased accountability measures before obligating US funds to Nigeria, expanded counter-terrorism cooperation, and stronger oversight of security assistance.
Other recommendations included sanctions on individuals and groups involved in religious violence, visa restrictions for perpetrators, and enhanced financial tracking to disrupt terror financing networks.
Although the lawmakers criticised the Nigerian government’s handling of insecurity, they acknowledged the country as a key US partner in Africa and called for a “redefined strategic partnership” to make both countries “safer, stronger, and more prosperous”.
