US Congressman Riley M. Moore held a high-level meeting in Washington, D.C., with a Nigerian government delegation led by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, where he raised renewed concerns about what he described as worsening attacks on Christians and the expanding reach of terrorist organisations across Nigeria.
Moore, who shared details of the engagement on X on Wednesday night, November 19, said the conversation was “frank, honest, and productive,” adding that it focused on counterterrorism support, intelligence cooperation, and safeguarding communities most vulnerable to violence.
The Nigerian officials in attendance included “Her Excellency Bianca Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs; Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, Inspector General of Police; Chief Lateef Olasunkami Fagbemi, SAN, Attorney General of the Federation; General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, Chief of Defence Staff; and Lt. Gen. EAP Undiendeye, Chief of Defence Intelligence, among others,” according to Moore’s statement.
The congressman 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 insisted that the situation demands immediate and measurable steps from Abuja.
“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 said.
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Moore also said the United States remains willing to assist Nigeria in tackling extremist networks.
“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 added.
He urged Nigeria to maximise the moment to rebuild trust and cooperation with Washington.
“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 disrupt and destroy terrorist groups within Nigeria.
“I urge the Nigerians to work with us in cooperation and coordination on this critical issue,” he noted.
During the talks, Nigerian officials reportedly outlined the difficulties they face in containing violent groups, protecting civilians, and coordinating effectively with international partners.
Moore said the United States will continue to watch developments closely and expects Nigeria to embrace available support aimed at stopping the bloodshed.