U.S, Nigeria address Christian persecution, terrorism threat
United States Congressman Riley M. Moore
Abdullateef Fowewe
The United States Congressman Riley M. Moore held a critical meeting with a delegation of Nigerian government officials led by the National Security Adviser to the President of Nigeria, Nuhu Ribadu, to discuss the escalating persecution of Christians and terrorism challenges in Nigeria.
The meeting focused on opportunities to strengthen cooperation between the United States and Nigeria to end the ongoing violence and bloodshed.
During the discussion, Nigerian officials outlined their concerns about counterterrorism, security assistance, and protection of vulnerable communities amidst widespread violence in Nigeria.
Congressman Moore emphasised the U.S. commitment to partnership and urged the Nigerian government to take tangible steps against the violence affecting Christians and other vulnerable populations.
Congressman Moore stated in a statement he shared, “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.
“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, “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, specifically Christians in the Northeast and Middle Belt regions of Nigeria.”
He noted that Nigerian government has the chance to strengthen and deepen its relationship with the United States stressing that President Trump and Congress are “united and serious in our resolve to end the violence against Christians and disrupt and destroy terrorist groups within Nigeria. I urge the Nigerians to work with us in cooperation and coordination on this critical issue.”
The delegation included top Nigerian officials such as the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, the Inspector General of Police, the Attorney General of the Federation, and the Chiefs of Defence Staff and Intelligence.
Congressman Moore, who leads the investigative committee under President Trump looking into the persecution of Christians in Nigeria, has been a vocal advocate for coordinated international efforts to stop the violence.
The United States warned that continued religious persecution would be intolerable and hinted at possible strong measures if progress is not made.
