A member of the Florida House of Representatives, Kimberly Daniels, has released a comprehensive assessment raising concerns over Nigeria’s worsening security situation, particularly attacks targeting Christian communities in parts of the country.
Daniels, who also serves as Chairwoman of the United World Congress of Diplomats, issued the report on Tuesday, citing recent violence during the 2026 Easter period in Plateau, Kaduna, and Nasarawa states, where dozens of worshippers were reportedly killed.
The assessment highlighted what it described as a “brutal surge in violence” targeting religious gatherings, including attacks during Palm Sunday and Easter services.
While acknowledging condemnation of the attacks by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the report, which the lawmaker published on her social media handles, pointed to what it termed a growing gap between official statements and the security realities faced by affected communities.
Central to the report are concerns over the continued role of Bello Matawalle as Minister of State for Defence. It cited allegations of credibility and integrity issues stemming from his tenure as governor of Zamfara State, including claims of links with bandit groups and involvement in ransom-related arrangements—allegations that have remained contentious in public discourse.
The document warned that such concerns could undermine public confidence in Nigeria’s security leadership and weaken ongoing counter-terrorism efforts.
Daniels and the UN-WCD recommended an immediate review of defence leadership, including the possible removal or redeployment of Matawalle, as part of broader efforts to restore trust and strengthen institutional integrity.
The report also called for transparent investigations into alleged complicity in banditry and enhanced protection for vulnerable communities in Nigeria’s North-Central and North-West regions.
The assessment has been forwarded to US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, with a call for stronger international engagement on Nigeria’s security situation.
Beyond Nigeria, the U.S. lawmaker urged the American government and international partners to increase diplomatic pressure to ensure accountability for individuals accused of aiding terrorism.
In a statement accompanying the report, Daniels said her position was informed by appeals from Nigerians and her role as a religious leader. She alleged that some of the violence may involve “homegrown” elements, stressing the devastating impact on affected communities.
The report comes amid ongoing international scrutiny of Nigeria’s security challenges. The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom has repeatedly recommended Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC), a status tied to religious freedom violations.
Daniels also referenced House Resolution 761, sponsored alongside a colleague, which condemns the persecution of Christians in Nigeria and supports the country’s redesignation as a CPC. The resolution reportedly received bipartisan backing in the Florida legislature.
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