Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, on Tuesday led a high-powered Federal Government delegation to Washington, D.C., where they held a crucial meeting with U.S. Congressman Riley M. Moore on the worsening persecution of Christians and the persistent threat of terrorism across Nigeria, Very Nigerian reports.
Congressman Moore, who hosted the visiting officials, described the engagement as “frank, honest, and productive,” noting that discussions focused on the protection of vulnerable communities, counterterrorism challenges, and opportunities for stronger cooperation between the United States and Nigeria to curb the bloodshed.
The Nigerian delegation, which includes top security, justice, and diplomatic officials, briefed the U.S. lawmaker on the government’s efforts, constraints, and concerns in combating Boko Haram, ISWAP, armed militias, and other violent actors responsible for attacks across the country.
Moore emphasised that the United States, under President Donald Trump’s stated foreign policy direction, would not tolerate continued violence against Christians or any form of religious persecution in Nigeria.
He warned that Washington expects “tangible steps” from Abuja to halt killings, displacement, and terror inflicted on Christian communities in the Northeast and Middle Belt.
“Christians must not be subjected to violence, persecution, displacement, and death simply for believing in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” Moore said in a statement released after the meeting.
“We stand ready to work cooperatively with the Nigerians to help combat terrorism perpetrated by Boko Haram, ISWAP, and Fulani militants. President Trump and Congress are united and serious in our resolve to end the violence and destroy terrorist groups within Nigeria.”
Moore added that he would continue monitoring developments and urging Nigerian authorities to take advantage of America’s “open hand of cooperation” to deepen bilateral security ties.
The Nigerian officials present at the meeting included:
• Mallam Nuhu Ribadu – National Security Adviser and leader of the delegation
• Her Excellency Bianca Ojukwu – Minister of State for Foreign Affairs
• Kayode Egbetokun – Inspector General of Police
• Chief Lateef Olasunkami Fagbemi, SAN – Attorney-General of the Federation
• General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede – Chief of Defence Staff
• Lt-Gen. E.A.P. Undiendeye – Chief of Defence Intelligence
• Ms. Idayat Hassan – Special Adviser to the NSA
• Ambassador Ibrahim Babani – Director of Foreign Relations, ONSA
• Ambassador Nuru Biu – Acting Chargé d’Affaires, Embassy of Nigeria
• Paul Alabi – Political and Economic Section, Embassy of Nigeria
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