FIACONA Congratulates President Donald Trump for Recognizing Christian Persecution in Nigeria; Expresses Deep Concern Over Rising Attacks on Christians in India

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 4, 2025

CONTACT: Office of Communications, (202) 738-4704, info@fiacona.org

WASHINGTON, D.C. –The Federation of Indian American Christian Organizations of North America (FIACONA) extends its heartfelt congratulations to President Donald J. Trump for his recent designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern (CPC)”, highlighting the ongoing persecution of Christians in that nation.

FIACONA commends President Trump for his moral clarity and commitment to defending religious freedom worldwide. His renewed recognition of the crisis faced by Nigerian Christians underscores the need for continued global attention to the plight of persecuted believers everywhere. The organization noted that President Trump’s stand reflects genuine courage and moral leadership. When world leaders publicly acknowledge the persecution of Christians, it sends a powerful message that faith-based violence can never be normalized or ignored.

According to multiple independent reports, Nigeria continues to be one of the most dangerous places in the world to be a Christian. Data compiled by the Observatory for Religious Freedom in Africa (ORFA) indicates that between 2019 and 2023, over 16,700 Christians were killed in Nigeria by extremist groups such as Boko Haram, ISWAP (Islamic State West Africa Province), and militant Fulani factions. Thousands more have been kidnapped, displaced from their homes, or forced to abandon their communities.

FIACONA welcomes any global leadership that shines a light on this humanitarian tragedy and affirms the right of every individual to worship freely and live in peace.

Growing Concern for Christians in India

While acknowledging this important recognition regarding Nigeria, FIACONA also expresses its deep concern about the sharp rise in religious persecution against Christians in India.

According to verified data compiled by the United Christian Forum (UCF), more than 300 incidents of violence and harassment against Christians were recorded in India during the first five months of 2025 alone. These include assaults on worshippers, vandalism of churches, and false arrests under anti-conversion laws across several Indian states — with the highest numbers reported in Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh.

FIACONA emphasizes that this growing hostility is a threat to India’s long tradition of pluralism and religious coexistence. The organization reaffirms its belief that freedom of faith is a fundamental human right, and any erosion of that freedom undermines the nation’s moral and democratic foundations.

FIACONA’s Silver Jubilee Commitment

As FIACONA celebrates its Silver Jubilee, marking 25 years of service, it renews its commitment to stand in solidarity with persecuted Christians around the world and to promote unity among Indian-American Christians in defense of religious freedom, human dignity, and justice.

For a quarter century, FIACONA has worked across North America to build bridges among churches, encourage interdenominational cooperation, and raise awareness about issues affecting Christian communities in India and beyond. The organization remains steadfast in prayer, unity, and advocacy for peace — continuing its mission to ensure that every believer, in every nation, can worship without fear.

About FIACONA

The Federation of Indian American Christian Organizations of North America (FIACONA) is a coalition of churches, ministries, and community groups representing over one million Indian-American Christians across the United States and Canada. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., FIACONA advocates for religious freedom, human rights, and unity among Christians of Indian origin.