United States Senator Ted Cruz has announced plans to introduce legislation aimed at holding Nigerian officials accountable for introducing and enforcing Sharia and blasphemy laws, which he says have contributed to the persecution of Christians in the country.

In a statement shared on social media, Cruz expressed gratitude to former President Donald Trump for designating Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” over religious persecution, describing the move as a “critical step in holding accountable and changing the behavior of Nigerian officials.”

“I am deeply gratified to President Trump for making this determination. I have 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 explained that the new legislation would implement additional steps to address human rights abuses and religious persecution in Nigeria, with a specific focus on officials who enforce or promote laws that criminalize blasphemy and impose Sharia punishments.

“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,” the Texas senator added.

Cruz praised President Trump’s decision as “a great one,” commending his “strong leadership” on the issue and emphasizing that the legislation would help “lock in” protections for Christians and other religious minorities in Nigeria.