For the third year in a row, the U.S. State Department failed to include Nigeria on its religious freedom watchlist, despite the long and intense history of violence against Christians by Islamic militants there.  

This year’s notable omission comes just weeks after a horrific attack during Christmas that resulted in at least 200 Christians murdered for their faith. In fact, last year 90% of the Christians worldwide who lost their lives for their faith were Nigerian.  

Earlier this month, members of Congress called on the Biden administration to condemn the widespread violence against Christians in Nigeria. The nation has more than earned the label of a “Country of Particular Concern,” and the time to recognize that is long overdue.  

In the meantime, Christians in America can continue to call on our representatives to put pressure on Nigeria, and we can also stand with our brothers and sisters in Christ through prayer and bringing attention to their plight whenever we can.