The United States government has started implementing a visa restriction policy targeting individuals in Nigeria accused of violating religious freedom.
Mark Walker, the US Principal Adviser for Global Religious Freedom, disclosed that the policy is already in force. He made this known in a post on X, noting that authorities have begun applying the measure.
Walker explained that persons linked to religious persecution will be subjected to increased scrutiny and could be denied entry into the United States.
He stressed that the US remains firm in its stance against religious oppression, adding that individuals involved in such acts would not be allowed into the country.
The policy was originally announced in December by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who said it would apply to those who knowingly direct, support, or participate in violations of religious freedom.
According to Rubio, the move is part of broader efforts to respond to violence against Christians in Nigeria and other regions.
The announcement followed a resolution by Chris Smith, chairman of the US House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, calling for visa bans and financial sanctions on individuals and organisations accused of serious religious rights violations.
The resolution specifically mentioned the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria and Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore as groups allegedly linked to such abuses.
Earlier in February, some US lawmakers also proposed sanctions against former Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwaso over alleged involvement in religious freedom violations.
However, Walker did not disclose the identities of those currently affected by the visa restrictions.
