A United States delegation recently completed a fact-finding mission to Nigeria, focusing on allegations of genocide against Christians. The delegation’s visit included meetings with key religious and traditional leaders in Benue State, a region that has experienced significant conflict.
Meeting with Religious and Traditional Leaders in Benue State
On Monday, the delegation engaged with Catholic bishops and the Tiv traditional ruler in Benue State. Congressman Riley Moore, a member of the delegation, shared details of these interactions on social media, expressing strong support for the Tiv people and Christian leaders in the region.
Moore stated that he met with Bishop Wilfred Anagbe, Bishop Isaac Dugu, and His Royal Highness James Ioruza, the traditional ruler of the Tiv people, to discuss what he described as an “ongoing genocidal campaign by the Fulani in Benue State.”
The congressman, who has been outspoken about attacks on Christian communities in Nigeria, emphasized that the United States would not ignore the suffering reported by local leaders. “Our brothers and sisters in Christ will no longer suffer in silence,” he declared. “The United States has heard your cries and we are working diligently toward solutions.”
Discussions with Nigerian Government Officials
Prior to the visit to Benue State, the US delegation engaged with Nigerian government officials, including National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu. Moore commended the Federal Government’s openness and willingness to collaborate with the US to address the ongoing insecurity in Nigeria.
Moore described his visit to Nigeria as “very productive,” noting that discussions focused on terrorism in the North-East and killings in the Middle Belt. He highlighted these issues as a specific concern for both himself and former President Donald Trump.
According to Moore, the US delegation and Nigerian officials examined concrete steps and actions that, if fully implemented, could improve security across the country. These measures aimed to disrupt and destroy terrorist organizations in the northeast and halt the killing of Christians, particularly in the Middle Belt.
- Specific Actions Discussed:
- Enhancing security across the country.
- Disrupting and destroying terrorist organizations in the northeast.
- Stopping the killing of Christians in the Middle Belt.
Moore also acknowledged the rescue of 100 abducted Catholic schoolchildren, thanking the Nigerian government and President Bola Tinubu for their efforts. “This is a positive demonstration of the government’s increasing response to the security situation and shows commitment to the emergency declaration laid out by President Tinubu,” he wrote.
He further stated that US concerns were “positively received” and pointed to a “now established joint task force between Nigeria and the US” as an example of ongoing cooperation. However, he stressed the importance of translating this openness into concrete action.
National Security Adviser’s Perspective
Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, confirmed that he hosted the US congressional delegation as part of ongoing security consultations between both countries. He noted that the visit followed earlier talks held in Washington DC, centered on mutual security interests.
Ribadu stated that US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, was also present at the meeting, underscoring the importance both nations attach to the engagement. Discussions focused on counter-terrorism cooperation, regional stability, and ways to strengthen the strategic security partnership between Nigeria and the United States.
“I’m optimistic this engagement will deepen trust, collaboration, and shared commitment to peace and security,” Ribadu said.
Background of US Concerns
The visit takes place amid heightened diplomatic tensions, stemming from the redesignation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern by the US due to alleged religious freedom violations. This designation, initially made under the Trump administration, has been a point of contention between the two nations.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has consistently refuted claims of systemic Christian persecution, asserting that insecurity affects citizens of all religious backgrounds.
Previous Engagements
In November, US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth hosted the NSA at the Pentagon for discussions on coordinated strategies to address the crisis. Simultaneously, the US House Subcommittee on Africa held a public hearing to examine President Trump’s redesignation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern, evaluating the potential implications of the designation.
Prior to these events, House Republicans issued warnings about rising religious violence in Nigeria during a joint briefing at the direction of President Trump, who instructed Moore and the House Appropriations Committee to investigate the alleged slaughter of Christians in the country and report its findings to the White House.
Future Outlook
Despite the complexities and challenges, both US and Nigerian officials have expressed optimism about the potential for improved cooperation and security. Congressman Moore concluded his message with a call for peace and blessings for the people of Nigeria, signaling a desire for continued dialogue and progress.
