United States Congressman Riley Moore has voiced strong support for Tiv and Christian leaders from Benue State following a recent meeting in Nigeria, addressing concerns about ongoing violence in the region.
Moore, in a statement shared on social media, detailed his discussions with prominent figures, including Bishop Wilfred Anagbe, Bishop Isaac Dugu, and James Ioruza, the traditional ruler of the Tiv people. The core focus of these discussions was what Moore described as a “genocidal campaign” allegedly being carried out by Fulani groups in Benue State.
US Response to Alleged Persecution
The congressman has been a consistent voice regarding attacks on Christian communities within Nigeria. He emphasized that the United States is aware of the reported suffering and intends to take action. “Our brothers and sisters in Christ will no longer suffer in silence,” Moore stated, adding, “The United States has heard your cries and we are working diligently toward solutions.”
High-Level Meetings and Security Consultations
Moore also shared details of a “very productive visit to Nigeria,” which included a meeting with Nigeria’s National Security Advisor, Nuhu Ribadu, and other Nigerian officials. These discussions centered on the issues of terrorism in the North-East and the killings occurring in the Middle Belt region. He characterized these issues as a specific concern for both himself and President Donald Trump.
The US delegation and Nigerian officials reportedly explored concrete steps that could be taken to improve security if fully implemented. Moore also acknowledged the rescue of 100 abducted Catholic schoolchildren, thanking the Nigerian government and President Bola Tinubu for their efforts.
Joint Task Force and Open Dialogue
Moore indicated that US concerns were “positively received” and highlighted the establishment of a “joint task force between Nigeria and the US” as a positive example of cooperation. He noted an “openness and willingness on the part of the Nigerian government to work with the United States to tackle these critical issues.” However, he stressed that this openness must translate into “concrete action.”
Moore concluded by stating, “There is much work still to be done, but things are moving in the right direction. I look forward to the next steps with the Nigerian government and the continued open dialogue.”
Nigerian Perspective: Security Consultations
Nigeria’s National Security Advisor, Nuhu Ribadu, confirmed the meeting with the US congressional delegation, framing it as part of ongoing security consultations between the two countries. In his own statement, Ribadu noted that the visit followed earlier talks held in Washington, D.C., which focused on mutual security interests.
The US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, was also present at the meeting, underscoring the importance both nations place on this engagement.
Ribadu stated that discussions centered on:
- Counter-terrorism cooperation
- Regional stability
- Strengthening the strategic security partnership between Nigeria and the United States
He expressed optimism that the engagement would “deepen trust, collaboration, and shared commitment to peace and security.”
Background: Tensions and Concerns
This visit occurs amidst a backdrop of heightened diplomatic tensions. The Trump administration previously redesignated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern due to alleged religious freedom violations, a move accompanied by threats of potential US military intervention.
The Nigerian government has consistently refuted claims of systemic Christian persecution, asserting that insecurity affects citizens of all religious backgrounds, regardless of their faith.
Previous Engagements
Prior to this visit, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth hosted NSA Ribadu at the Pentagon for discussions on coordinated strategies to address the ongoing crisis. Furthermore, the US House Subcommittee on Africa convened a public hearing to examine President Trump’s redesignation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern, evaluating the potential implications of the designation.
House Republicans also issued warnings about rising religious violence in Nigeria during a joint briefing. These actions followed instructions from President Trump to Moore and the House Appropriations Committee to investigate the alleged “slaughter of Christians” in Nigeria and report their findings to the White House.
