In an exclusive interview with Arise News in Washington, DC, United States Congressman Bill Huizenga expressed disappointment in the Nigerian government’s handling of ongoing attacks on Christians, calling for economic sanctions rather than military intervention. Huizenga, a key advocate for President Trump’s resolution designating Nigeria as a “country of particular concern,” said he was “shocked” by Trump’s recent comments about a potential invasion but agreed that religious persecution must end.

Speaking to Arise News Correspondent Anieze Osakwe at the Rayburn House Office Building in Washington, the Congressman said Nigeria risks repeating the tragedies seen in Rwanda and South Sudan if action is not taken swiftly.

“We were too late on Rwanda, we were too late on South Sudan… let’s not be too late again on this one,” he said.

Huizenga highlighted the plight of victims attacked by Fulani militants and radicalised Islamists, noting that both Christians and moderate Muslims have been targets of coordinated violence. He said he had personally spoken with religious leaders and villagers who described being attacked in their homes and “feeling very much targeted.”

Reacting to President Trump’s viral remarks that “Christianity is facing an existential threat in Nigeria”, Huizenga clarified that he does not foresee an actual U.S. military invasion.

“I don’t envision a surprise attack or a military response,” he said. “Economic pressure and sanctions on individuals and organisations would be more effective.”

The Congressman emphasised that the U.S. government shutdown had slowed legislative processes, but that he plans to push for hearings and discussions once operations resume.

“Sanctions really cut off the flow of money and travel. We don’t know who is financing these operations, but economic pressure will have a positive impact,” he said.

Huizenga further criticised the Nigerian government’s response, saying it has been dismissive and insufficient.

“They need to demonstrate what they are doing to protect not just Christians but all citizens,” he said. “Their response has been, ‘there’s really not a problem.’ Well, I think there is.”

The lawmaker added that continued instability threatens Nigeria’s economic growth and foreign investment.

“When you can’t guarantee the safety of workers or businesses, you have a problem,” he warned. “It’s in Nigeria’s best interest to address the root causes of this violence.”

Huizenga concluded that his frustration with Nigerian authorities led to the introduction of new resolutions in the U.S. Congress, stressing that the international community must hold Nigeria accountable to prevent further atrocities. (AriseNews TV, excluding headline)