In a statement released on Friday, Cruz commended Trump's “strong leadership,” describing the move as a crucial milestone in confronting what he called the “slaughter and persecution of Christians” in Nigeria.
“I am deeply gratified to President Trump 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 said.
He added that the designation marked “a critical step” in holding Nigerian officials accountable and changing the behavior of those who “have facilitated and created an environment conducive to the outrages in Nigeria.”
The Texas lawmaker revealed that his proposed legislation would strengthen the CPC designation by introducing additional measures, including sanctions against individuals responsible for implementing blasphemy and sharia laws in the country.
“My legislation implements additional steps including targeting those who implement blasphemy and sharia laws in Nigeria, and I am committed to working with the administration and my colleagues to advance my bill and implement these necessary measures,” Cruz stated.
He reiterated his commitment to working with the U.S. administration and Congress to advance policies aimed at defending religious freedom and protecting persecuted Christians in Nigeria.
“Today's decision by President Trump is a great one, and I thank him for his strong leadership,” the senator concluded.
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