U.S. Allocates N5bn to Combat Religious Violence in Nigeria

The U.S. Department of State has announced a new program worth approximately N5 billion (USD 3.5 million) aimed at tracking and documenting violations of religious freedom across Nigeria.

This initiative is expected to enhance the monitoring and reporting of attacks and abuses linked to religious beliefs, particularly affecting Christian and Muslim communities. The program will support organizations capable of gathering credible evidence and improving documentation processes, with a project duration of two to four years.

The funding will be open to a wide range of organizations, including non-profits and academic institutions, with a preference for those with relevant experience. Applications for the program will close on July 9, 2026.

This intervention aligns with broader U.S. efforts to address concerns about religious persecution in Nigeria, particularly in light of violence perpetrated by extremist groups and armed actors. The Nigerian government has consistently rejected claims of religious persecution, asserting its commitment to addressing security challenges affecting citizens of all faiths.