The United States Congress has asked Nigeria to divest from Russian military equipment and instead procure American defence systems, linking the recommendation to broader efforts to deepen security cooperation and combat violence against Christian communities and other vulnerable groups.
The recommendation was contained in a congressional statement titled “Ending The Persecution of Christians in Nigeria,” which outlined sweeping security, diplomatic and economic measures proposed by US lawmakers following investigations into religious violence and insecurity in Nigeria.
“Continue and expand security cooperation with the United States, including by divesting from Russian military equipment for American military equipment through sales and financing,” the statement, posted on X by Riley Moore, US representative, said.
The proposal signals Washington’s push to reduce Nigeria’s defence ties with Moscow while strengthening its own strategic and military influence in Africa’s most populous country.
Lawmakers specifically also alleged that illegal mining activities involving Chinese actors are contributing to funding armed militias.
“Counteract the hostile foreign exploitation of Chinese illegal mining operations and their destabilizing practice of paying protection money to Fulani militias,” the statement said.
The Congress also recommended economic and agricultural pressure, including reviewing livestock exports linked to armed groups.
“Review and use point of leverage to compel Fulani herdsmen to disarm, including by blocking export of beef and other cattle-related products to countries like Ivory Coast, Ghana, South Africa, and Senegal,” the statement said.
Congress said the recommendation forms part of a broader security framework aimed at helping Nigeria confront armed groups and restore stability, particularly in the Middle Belt and northern regions.
“Technical support to the Government of Nigeria to reduce and then eliminate violence from armed Fulani militias, including by developing a demobilization, disarmament, and reintegration program to address illicit weapons and support safer communities,” the statement said.
Lawmakers also urged Nigeria to strengthen its security forces and improve response capacity.
“Enhancing the recruitment, technical capabilities, and willingness of the security forces and military to prevent and respond to violent attacks,” the document stated.
Congress further called for expanded counterterrorism cooperation, including direct support for Nigerian authorities.
“Comprehensive counter-terrorism cooperation to rid the region of Foreign Terrorist Organizations that pose a direct threat… including through the provision of excess defense equipment and use of relevant drawdown authorities,” the statement said.
