U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R) is commending President Donald Trump following the Administration's decision to designate Nigeria as a "Country of Particular Concern" for Religious persecution.
"I am deeply gratified to President Trump for making this determination," Cruz said in a statement. "I have fought for years to counter the slaughter and persecution of Christians in Nigeria, and this year introduced legislation that will lock in the designation made today."
Cruz has been a long-time advocate for international religious freedom and introduced legislation to sanction Nigerian Officials who enable Islamist Jihadist violence or enforce blasphemy laws earlier this year.
Cruz emphasized that the designation is "a critical step in holding accountable and changing the behavior of Nigerian officials who have facilitated and created an environment conducive to the outrages in Nigeria."
He also pointed to his ongoing legislative efforts aimed at further addressing the crisis.
"My legislation implements additional steps, including targeting those who implement blasphemy and sharia laws in Nigeria," said Cruz.
Cruz added that he remains committed to collaborating with both the administration and his congressional colleagues, and concluded by thanking President Trump for his leadership.
"Today's decision by President Trump is a great one, and I thank him for his strong leadership."
The Country of Particular Concern designation marks a significant policy move aimed at pressuring the Nigerian government to protect religious minorities and uphold human rights.
