Press Release
For Immediate Release
November 2, 2025
Orthodox Public Affairs Committee (OPAC) Statement on the Trump Administration’s Efforts to Address Christian Persecution in Nigeria
New York, NY — The Orthodox Public Affairs Committee (OPAC) commends the Trump Administration for its renewed commitment to confronting the ongoing persecution of Christians in Nigeria. Since its founding in 2020, OPAC has been at the forefront of drawing attention to the atrocities suffered by Nigerian Christians and has consistently called for decisive international action to end the violence. We are encouraged that our longstanding appeals are finally being heard and acted upon at the highest levels of government.
“The suffering of Christians in Nigeria has persisted for far too long,” said George Gigicos, Co-Founder and Chairman of OPAC. “We are deeply grateful that the Trump Administration has recognized the gravity of this crisis and has rightfully restored Nigeria to the Countries of Particular Concern list. We continue to question why it was ever removed, as the evidence of persecution has been overwhelming. This designation is a crucial acknowledgment of the reality on the ground and a necessary step toward meaningful and sustained action.”
Andrew Veniopoulos, Co-Founder and Vice Chair of OPAC, stated, “OPAC has consistently urged world leaders to confront the targeted persecution of Christians in Nigeria. This is not a political matter—it is a moral imperative. We welcome any initiative that seeks to restore peace, justice, and security to innocent people who simply wish to practice their faith freely.”
Nick Furris, Co-Founder and Secretary of OPAC, added, “Addressing this crisis will require thoughtful, coordinated, and sustained efforts by all parties. We stand firmly with the administration and with the people of Nigeria, who deserve to live and worship without fear of violence or discrimination.”
OPAC remains steadfast in its mission to advocate for religious freedom and human dignity. We urge the governments of Nigeria, the United States, and all nations to pursue lasting peace through dialogue, understanding, and justice. We will always stand for peace—never for war—and continue to champion the universal right of every individual to worship freely and without fear.
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The Orthodox Public Affairs Committee (OPAC) was established to provide public advocacy for the global Orthodox Christian Church, and to promote, support, defend and champion Christian communities worldwide in the face of persecution, exclusion and prejudice. We are committed to defending sacred space, whether it be physical, intellectual, moral or spiritual; to speak for the voiceless, to listed to the unheard, and to manifest the righteous causes of Christian faithful everywhere.
