A United States delegation on a fact-finding mission to investigate allegations of Christian genocide in Nigeria visited Benue State on Monday, meeting with Catholic bishops and the Tiv paramount ruler.
US Congressman Riley Moore, who has been outspoken about violence against Christian communities in Nigeria, disclosed the visit in a post on X. He expressed strong support for Tiv and Christian leaders, noting that the team listened to firsthand accounts of the killings and displacement affecting communities in the state.
“It was an honour and deeply moving to meet with Bishop Wilfred Anagbe, Bishop Isaac Dugu, and His Royal Highness James Ioruza,” Moore wrote. “Our brothers and sisters in Christ will no longer suffer in silence. The United States has heard your cries and we are working diligently toward solutions.”
Moore said the mission reflected increasing concern in Washington over terrorism in the North-East and the persistent killings in the Middle Belt—issues he described as a priority for President Donald Trump and himself.
The visit came shortly after the delegation met with Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, in Abuja. Moore said their discussions focused on practical measures that could help reduce insecurity, disrupt terrorist networks, and protect vulnerable communities.
According to him, the Nigerian government showed openness to cooperation, noting that a joint security task force between both countries is now in place. He also commended the recent rescue of 100 abducted Catholic schoolchildren, calling it a positive sign of the government’s renewed response to insecurity.
“There were concrete steps discussed that, if carried out fully, will enhance security across the country,” he wrote. “Things are moving in the right direction.”
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Ribadu, in an earlier statement, confirmed hosting the US delegation as part of ongoing consultations aimed at strengthening counter-terrorism and regional security cooperation. He said the presence of the US Ambassador to Nigeria underscored the importance of the engagement.
The mission comes amid increased diplomatic tension following the US redesignation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged religious-freedom violations. The Nigerian government has repeatedly rejected claims of targeted persecution, insisting that insecurity affects citizens of all religious backgrounds.
Meanwhile, the US Congress continues to scrutinize the situation. Last week, lawmakers held hearings to examine the implications of the redesignation, while President Trump instructed investigators to compile a detailed report on attacks against Christians in the country.
Moore concluded his update with a message of solidarity: “Peace be with you all. God bless the great people of Nigeria.”
