U.S. Lawmakers, Nigerian Officials Discuss Nigeria’s Insecurity, Need for Strategic Support

As Nigeria continues to face widespread security challenges, recent discussions between U.S. lawmakers and Nigerian officials have emphasized the need for coordinated solutions and strategic engagement.

In testimony before the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee, Oge Onubogu, Director of the Africa Program at the Wilson Center, highlighted the severity of insecurity in Nigeria.

While she did not use the exact phrasing reported in some media, Onubogu stressed that the Nigerian people widely recognize that urgent action is required to address ongoing violence, terrorism, and banditry.

She called for a multi-dimensional approach, urging the U.S. to provide support not only in security matters but also in governance reforms, accountability, and local community engagement.

Onubogu underscored that Nigeria remains a crucial partner for the United States in West Africa, both economically and strategically, and encouraged policymakers to consider the complex realities on the ground before framing the country in overly simplistic terms.

Separately, U.S. lawmakers involved in the hearing, including proponents of the Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act of 2025, emphasized that continued violence and religious persecution require serious attention.

While some media outlets have paraphrased statements as calling for international intervention if Nigeria cannot handle its security challenges, the official position encourages robust support, advocacy, and partnership rather than direct military involvement.

Observers note that the dialogue reflects a balancing act: acknowledging the Nigerian government’s struggles with internal security, while maintaining diplomatic relations and avoiding overly one-sided narratives that might misrepresent the situation.

The discussions are expected to shape U.S. policy decisions on aid, diplomatic engagement, and oversight of human rights and religious freedom initiatives in Nigeria.

The hearing also highlighted testimonies from Nigerian religious leaders, including Bishop Wilfred Anagbe of Makurdi Diocese, who detailed the humanitarian and security crises affecting communities in Benue State, reinforcing the call for nuanced U.S. engagement.