US Congressman Riley M. Moore met with Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and other senior officials in Washington, D.C. The meeting addressed rising religious violence and the growing threat of terrorism in Nigeria.
Focus on Security and Religious Persecution
Moore described the talks as “frank, honest, and productive.” Discussions covered counterterrorism, security cooperation, and protection for vulnerable communities, especially Christians facing repeated attacks.
Call for Tangible Action From Nigeria
In a statement on X, Moore said the U.S. expects concrete steps from Nigeria. He stressed the need to stop the persecution, violence, and displacement of Christians. He warned that the situation cannot continue unchecked.
Delegation of Senior Nigerian Officials
The Nigerian delegation included:
- Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Bianca Ojukwu
- Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun
- Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi
- Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede
- Chief of Defence Intelligence Lt. Gen. EAP Undiendeye
U.S. Reaffirms Commitment to Support Nigeria
Moore said the U.S. is ready to help Nigeria combat Boko Haram, ISWAP, and other militant groups. He urged Nigeria to strengthen cooperation with Washington. He noted that Congress and President Donald Trump remain committed to ending religious violence in Nigeria.
U.S. Monitoring Developments Closely
Moore added that the U.S. will watch developments carefully. He said Nigeria must work with international partners to stop the ongoing bloodshed.
Hearing on Nigeria’s Religious Freedom Status
The meeting occurred shortly before a major hearing by the U.S. House Subcommittee on Africa. The hearing will examine President Trump’s move to redesignate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern.
Key Speakers at the Congressional Hearing
The hearing, set for 11:00 a.m. at the Rayburn House Office Building, will feature two panels:
- Panel 1: Jonathan Pratt and Jacob McGee from the U.S. State Department
- Panel 2: Bishop Wilfred Anagbe, human rights advocate Nina Shea, and Oge Onubogu of CSIS
Ongoing Criticism of Nigeria’s Religious Freedom Record
Moore recently challenged President Bola Tinubu’s claim that Nigeria does not promote religious persecution. He said the situation on the ground shows otherwise.
He also condemned the abduction of schoolgirls in Kebbi State and asked the public to pray for the victims.
U.S. Considering Policy Options
The upcoming hearing will examine patterns of religious attacks in Nigeria. Lawmakers are expected to consider policy options, including targeted sanctions, humanitarian aid, and deeper security cooperation with Nigerian authorities.
