THIS DAWN — In a high-level diplomatic engagement focused on Nigeria’s worsening security crisis, U.S. Congressman Riley M. Moore, on November 19, 2025, held a crucial meeting with a delegation of senior Nigerian government officials led by the country’s National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.
The meeting, which took place in Washington, D.C., centred on the escalating persecution of Christians, persistent terrorist attacks, and the need for stronger U.S.–Nigeria cooperation to end the bloodshed.
According to briefings from both sides, the Nigerian delegation provided detailed insights into the government’s ongoing security challenges and efforts to counter terrorism.
Discussions covered Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgency, rising attacks in the Middle Belt, the protection of vulnerable communities, and the broader difficulties involved in tackling criminal violence across the nation.
Congressman Moore stressed that the United States remains deeply concerned about continued violence against Christians and other forms of religious persecution in Nigeria.
He reiterated that the U.S. is willing to deepen security coordination—particularly in intelligence sharing, counterterrorism support, and humanitarian intervention—if Nigeria demonstrates clear, measurable commitments to protecting at-risk communities.
“Trump does not make idle threats”
Moore referenced former President Donald Trump’s stance on Christian persecution, emphasizing that the U.S. government will not ignore or downplay any ongoing attacks targeting Christians.
“President Trump does not make idle threats,” he said, adding that he will continue pushing for stronger accountability and decisive action from the Nigerian government.
In a statement issued after the meeting, Congressman 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.
“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 further noted that the U.S. is prepared to work with Nigeria to confront Boko Haram, ISWAP, and violent extremist groups, particularly those targeting Christian communities in the Northeast and Middle Belt.
“President Trump and Congress are united and serious in our resolve,” he said.
The Nigerian delegation included top security and diplomatic officials, among them were:
- NSA Nuhu Ribadu,
- Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Bianca Ojukwu,
- Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi, Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede, and senior officials from Nigeria’s defence and intelligence establishments.
The dialogue is expected to continue as both nations explore deeper cooperation on counterterrorism and religious freedom protections.
