United States Senator Ted Cruz has announced new legislative efforts aimed at countering the enforcement of blasphemy and sharia laws in Nigeria.
The development comes after President Donald Trump’s designation of the country as one of particular concern over religious freedom violations.
Cruz, in a post on X on Friday, said he was gratified by Trump’s decision, noting that he had long advocated measures to address the persecution of Christians in Nigeria.
He described the designation as a critical step toward holding accountable Nigerian officials who have enabled or tolerated violence and persecution based on religion.
According to him, his proposed legislation would reinforce the US government’s stance by targeting individuals responsible for implementing blasphemy and sharia laws, adding that he would work with the administration and Congress to advance the bill and ensure its full implementation.
Cruz said, “I am deeply gratified to President Trump for making this determination. I have fought for years to counter the slaughter and persecution of Christians in Nigeria, and this year introduced legislation that will lock in the designation made today.
“Today’s designation is a critical step in holding accountable and changing the behavior of Nigerian officials who have facilitated and created an environment conducive to the outrages in Nigeria. My legislation implements additional steps, including targeting those who implement blasphemy and sharia laws in Nigeria, and I am committed to working with the administration and my colleagues to advance my bill and implement these necessary measures. Today’s decision by President Trump is a great one, and I thank him for his strong leadership.”
