US Congressman Riley M. Moore has held a high-level meeting with Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and other senior government officials to address concerns about rising attacks on Christians and the growing threat of terrorism across Nigeria.
Moore, in a statement shared on X late Wednesday, described the discussion in Washington, D.C., as “frank, honest, and productive.” The meeting focused on counterterrorism efforts, security support, and the protection of vulnerable communities, especially in regions affected by extremist violence.
The Nigerian delegation included top officials such as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Bianca Ojukwu, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, Attorney General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi, Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede, and Chief of Defence Intelligence Lt. Gen. E.A.P. Undiendeye.
Moore said he stressed the urgency of concrete action, insisting the international community must see real progress.
He wrote, “I made it crystal clear that the United States must see tangible steps to ensure that Christians are not subject to violence, persecution, displacement, and death simply for believing in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”
He also reaffirmed the willingness of the United States to support Nigeria in combating Boko Haram, ISWAP, and armed militant groups responsible for attacks in the North-East and Middle Belt.
Moore urged Nigeria to strengthen cooperation with the US, saying both Congress and former President Trump are committed to addressing religious violence and dismantling terrorist networks.
During the meeting, the Nigerian officials outlined the severe challenges faced in securing the country — including protecting civilians, managing multiple terror fronts, and improving collaboration with international partners.
Moore noted that the US government will be watching Nigeria’s actions closely and expects the country to embrace available assistance to stop the ongoing violence.
Read Also;
US lawmaker accuses Nigeria of failing to protect Christians despite military aid
The meeting came just hours before a major hearing at the U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee on Africa, which is examining the redesignation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” over religious freedom issues.
The hearing, chaired by Representative Chris Smith, is set to feature key US officials and prominent Nigerian religious leaders, including Bishop Wilfred Anagbe and advocates like Nina Shea.
Moore has recently been vocal about insecurity in Nigeria. He criticised President Bola Tinubu’s claim that religious persecution is not officially tolerated in the country and condemned the recent abduction of schoolgirls in Kebbi State.
“Please join me in praying for the 25 girls who have been kidnapped and for the repose of the soul of their vice principal,” he wrote earlier in the week.
The Congressional hearing is expected to explore new policy options — including sanctions, humanitarian aid, and deeper security cooperation — to address ongoing religious violence and terrorism in Nigeria.
