A senior Nigerian delegation led by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu met US Congressman Riley M. Moore in Washington on Wednesday to discuss what Moore described as worsening persecution of Christians and the expanding threat of terrorism across Nigeria.
Moore, who posted a statement on X after the meeting, said the talks were “frank, honest, and productive”, with discussions centred on counterterrorism cooperation, security assistance and the protection of vulnerable communities.
The Nigerian team included senior officials such as Bianca Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs; the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi; the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede; and the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lt Gen E.A.P. Undiendeye.
In his statement, Moore said he had raised concerns about “horrific violence and persecution Christians face”, insisting that the US expected clear and immediate action 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 Saviour Jesus Christ,” he wrote.
Moore reiterated Washington’s readiness to deepen counterterrorism collaboration, saying the US “stands ready” to work with Nigeria against Boko Haram, ISWAP and armed Fulani groups targeting civilians, particularly in the North-East and Middle Belt.
He said the talks offered Nigeria “the chance to strengthen and deepen its relationship with the United States”, adding that both President Trump and Congress were “united and serious” about ending violence against Christians and dismantling terrorist networks operating in Nigeria.
Nigerian officials reportedly briefed the congressman on the country’s security challenges, from protecting civilians to coordinating with international partners. Moore said the US would monitor developments closely and expected Abuja to accept offers of cooperation “to end the ongoing bloodshed”.
As of Wednesday night, neither Ribadu nor other senior members of the delegation had issued an official statement on the meeting.
Moore has in recent days publicly challenged President Bola Tinubu’s assertion that Nigeria does not tolerate religious persecution, arguing that “the reality on the ground” contradicts the President’s position. He also condemned Tuesday’s abduction of schoolgirls in Kebbi State, urging prayers for the victims and for the vice-principal killed in the attack.
