State Dept. Announces New Sanctions Against Nigerian Leaders Amid Christian Persecution12/08/2025Government leaders in Nigeria remain in the crosshairs of attention and pressure for the ongoing extreme persecution of Christians by Islamist militants. The U.S. Department of State has opened the door for travel sanctions against Nigeria’s leaders who violate religious freedom and their family members. The organization International Christian Concern said the heightened global attention has increased religious tensions in Nigeria, but it has brought significant hope to many Nigerian believers.