Nigerian Americans commend Trump for CPC designation
By Ndukaku Ihe
Christian Association of Nigerian Americans (CANAN) has applauded the recent decision of the United States government to designate Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) under the International Religious Freedom Act.
CANAN President, Pastor James Fadel, in a statement, at the weekend, said the action rightly recognizes the severity of the decades-long campaign of terror against Christian and other vulnerable communities in Nigeria, an attack that successive Nigerian governments have often downplayed, denied, or dismissed.
He said the CPC designation marks a critical moment of accountability and hope, thus urging the Nigerian government to seize the moment to stop denying the brutality, confront the crisis with comprehensive and sustainable action, provide urgent humanitarian relief, and to restore dignity and security to victims uprooted by terror.
The CANAN President, however, suggested that US government takes additional compassionate and strategic action in response to the crisis by granting Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to Nigerians who have fled terror and are currently residing in the US; expanding refugee admission opportunities for Nigerians trapped in unsafe refugee camps in neighboring countries; and prioritizing the most vulnerable populations, especially women, children, religious minorities, and survivors of terror, for humanitarian relocation and assistance.
“These measures will provide immediate protection and life-saving relief to those who can no longer safely return home.”
He appealed to the global community, including governments, humanitarian organizations, faith-based groups, and concerned citizens, to redouble support for the people of Nigeria, to stand with the vulnerable, and help bring lasting peace and restoration.
“CANAN stands ready to partner with all stakeholders to ensure justice, healing, and
renewal for Nigerian Christians, displaced communities, and the families of those
who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
“We equally appeal to the Nigerian government, humanitarian agencies, and international partners to scale up urgently needed assistance by expanding food, shelter, medical, and psycho-social aid for IDPs within Nigeria.
“Additionally, provide basic needs and protection for Nigerian refugees in Cameroon and other host nations; facilitate safe and voluntary return of displaced families to their original communities once security is restored; support for security forces and families”, he suggested.
CANAN emphasized the need to support the brave soldiers, paramilitary officers, and vigilantes who risk and often lose their lives protecting Nigerian citizens.
“We urge the government to provide immediate financial, medical, and rehabilitative support to wounded service members and their families; establish compensation, education support, and social services for the families of those who have fallen in line of duty; and recognize publicly and honor national security personnel’s sacrifice, thereby boosting morale and affirming national solidarity”, he said.
