US Congressman Riley M. Moore met with a senior Nigerian delegation led by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu to address the alleged escalating persecution of Christians and the rising threat of terrorism in Nigeria.
Moore described the discussion as “frank, honest, and productive,” noting that it focused on counterterrorism efforts, security assistance, and the protection of vulnerable communities across the country.
He shared details of the high-level meeting in a statement on X on Wednesday night, confirming that it took place in Washington, D.C.
The Nigerian delegation included officials such as Her Excellency Bianca Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs; Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun; Attorney General of the Federation, Chief Lateef Olasunkami Fagbemi, SAN; Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede; and Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lt. Gen. EAP Undiendeye, among others.
In his statement, Moore said, “Today, I had a frank, honest, and productive discussion with senior members of the Nigerian government regarding the horrific violence and persecution Christians face and the ongoing threat terrorism poses across Nigeria.”
He stressed that religious violence must not continue unchecked and called for concrete action.
“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 added.
Moore reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to supporting Nigeria in its fight against militant groups.
“We stand ready to work cooperatively with the Nigerians to help their nation combat the terrorism perpetrated by Boko Haram, ISWAP, and Fulani militants against their population, especially Christians in the Northeast and Middle Belt regions,” he noted.
He also urged Nigeria to take advantage of the opportunity to strengthen its relationship with the U.S.
“The Nigerian government has the chance to strengthen and deepen its relationship with the United States. President Trump and Congress are united and serious in our resolve to end the violence against Christians and destroy terrorist groups within Nigeria. I urge the Nigerians to work with us in cooperation and coordination on this critical issue.”
During the meeting, Nigerian officials reportedly outlined the challenges they face in protecting civilians, combating terrorism, and coordinating with international partners.
Moore said the U.S. will closely monitor developments and expects Nigeria to accept cooperation efforts aimed at ending the ongoing bloodshed.
As of Wednesday night, neither Ribadu, Egbetokun, nor the Foreign Minister had issued an official statement on the meeting.
