The Digest:
United States lawmakers have urged President Donald Trump to prioritise investments by the International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) in Nigeria, particularly in the middle belt region. The recommendation is contained in a congressional report titled 'Ending the Persecution of Christians in Nigeria', submitted to the White House on Monday by the joint House Committees on Appropriations and Foreign Affairs. The report, based on months of investigation including on-the-ground assessments in Nigeria, described the country as "one of the most dangerous places in the world for Christians." The legislators emphasised that economic investments, alongside security cooperation, are critical to stabilising affected communities in the middle belt, which has witnessed recurring armed group attacks, banditry, and communal violence. Other recommendations include increased accountability measures before obligating US funds, expanded counter-terrorism cooperation, sanctions on individuals involved in religious violence, and visa restrictions for perpetrators. The report acknowledges Nigeria as a key US partner in Africa and calls for a "redefined strategic partnership."
Key Points:
- DFC investments could channel US development funds to stabilise Nigeria's conflict-affected middle belt.
- Economic interventions complement security efforts to address root causes of instability.
- Middle belt communities gain potential development support, while US-Nigeria ties deepen.
- This signals a holistic US approach combining security, economic, and accountability measures.
- The timing, with CPC designation, keeps Nigeria under scrutiny.
Sources: The Cable, US House Committees
