The United States has welcomed the Nigerian government’s response to recent attacks in Plateau State and called for sustained efforts to protect communities affected by violence.
The US Department of State’s Bureau of African Affairs made the position known in a post on X on Tuesday, September 29, while specifically urging continued protection for residents of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.
“The United States commends Nigeria’s strong response to the latest attacks from Fulani militant groups,” the bureau said.
“We will continue to work with the Nigerian government to protect Christians in the Middle Belt.
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“We urge Nigeria to continue the momentum and defend the Barkin Ladi communities in particular.”
The statement comes against the backdrop of renewed violence across parts of Nigeria’s Middle Belt, particularly the North-Central states, where communities have experienced attacks, kidnappings, communal clashes and farmer-herder conflicts.
Barkin Ladi has been among the areas affected by a recent escalation, with several incidents reported in September involving different communities and groups.
The continuing incidents have increased security concerns across Barkin Ladi and neighbouring parts of Plateau State.
Authorities have responded with troop deployments and movement restrictions in some affected areas as efforts continue to prevent further attacks and reprisals.