United States Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal has cautioned her colleagues against applying excessive pressure or adopting a confrontational posture toward Nigeria as the country grapples with escalating insecurity.

Jayapal made the remarks on Wednesday during a U.S. Congress Public Hearing on Nigeria’s redesignation as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC)—a process initiated under former President Donald Trump and currently under review.

Responding to Trump’s recent comments threatening military action against Nigeria if the killing of Christians continues, Jayapal warned that such rhetoric is counterproductive and damaging.

She stated:

“I just wish we would stick to that playbook rather than bully and threaten Nigeria, which is extremely important to us in the region. I don’t think it’s the right way to go on Truth Social and threaten with guns blazing.”

Jayapal emphasised that diplomatic engagement, cooperation, and measured pressure remain the most effective tools for addressing Nigeria’s complex security issues.

Her comments come as senior Nigerian government officials continue closed-door meetings with the U.S. House Subcommittee on Africa to discuss insecurity, human rights concerns, and bilateral strategies to restore stability.