Nigerian Delegation Parley Congressman Riley Moore in Washington
A senior Nigerian security delegation, led by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, held a high-level meeting with U.S. Congressman Riley M. Moore on Wednesday, focusing on counterterrorism cooperation and addressing escalating violence against Christians in Nigeria.
The delegation included top officials such as 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 Chief of Defence Intelligence Lt. Gen. E. A. P. Undiendeye.
The discussions centered on concerns over religious persecution and attacks on vulnerable communities in Nigeria.
Congressman Moore described the talks as “frank, honest and productive,” stressing the need for tangible measures to protect civilians from violence linked to extremist groups, including Boko Haram, ISWAP, and Fulani militants.
He reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to collaborating with Nigeria through enhanced security assistance and coordinated counterterrorism operations.
“The United States will not tolerate continued violence against Christians or other forms of religious persecution,” Moore said, emphasizing that strengthened cooperation with Nigeria presents an opportunity to reinforce bilateral relations and support stability in the region.
The Nigerian officials outlined the challenges they face in combating terrorism, including limited resources and the complexities of operating in regions heavily affected by insurgent groups.
Ribadu, who led the delegation, is expected to engage further with other key U.S. officials, including senior figures at the White House and Congress.
The visit comes amid increasing U.S. scrutiny of Nigeria’s handling of religious violence.
Congressman Moore has called for heightened attention to the situation, advocating for designations and resolutions that address the systematic persecution of religious minorities in Nigeria.
As discussions continue, the focus remains on whether diplomatic engagement can translate into concrete actions to combat terrorism and address the deep-seated religious tensions driving violence in Nigeria.
The meeting represents a significant step in forging a closer security and diplomatic partnership between the two countries.
