Nigeria’s security situation requires more effort — US congressman
US Congressman Riley Moore Raises Alarms Over Rising Terrorism and Killings in Nigeria
United States Congressman Riley Moore has expressed deep concern over escalating terrorism and ongoing killings across Nigeria, stating that “much work still to be done” following his strategic security meeting with Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu.
In a detailed statement shared on X and sighted by
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, Moore revealed that discussions focused heavily on extremist activities in the North-East and increasing attacks in the Middle Belt—issues he described as major areas of concern for President Donald Trump and himself.
Focus on Terrorism, Middle Belt Killings
According to Moore, the US delegation and Nigerian officials examined several “concrete steps and actions” aimed at strengthening national security if implemented fully. He emphasised that the primary goal is to disrupt terrorist networks in the North-East and curb the killings of Christians, particularly in the Middle Belt region.
He said:
“There were concrete steps and actions discussed at length, that if fully executed, I believe will enhance security across the country for all Nigerians… and stop the killing of Christians (a specific concern for @POTUS and me).”
Commendation for Rescue of Catholic Schoolchildren
Moore also praised the Nigerian government and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the successful rescue of 100 abducted Catholic schoolchildren. He described the move as a “positive demonstration” of Nigeria’s improving response to the security crisis, noting that it aligns with Tinubu’s emergency declaration on nationwide insecurity.
He stated:
“I want to thank the Nigerian government and @officialABAT for rescuing the 100 innocent and precious Catholic school children.”
US-Nigeria Joint Task Force Strengthening Cooperation
The congressman confirmed that US security concerns were “positively received” by Nigerian officials, highlighting the establishment of a joint task force between both nations as a significant step forward. He reiterated that Nigeria has shown openness to collaborate with the United States, but insisted that the willingness must translate into “concrete action.”
He added:
“There is much work still to be done, but things are moving in the right direction. I look forward to the next steps… and continued open dialogue.”
NSA Ribadu Confirms Ongoing High-Level Consultations
NSA Nuhu Ribadu also confirmed the meeting through a post on X, noting that it followed earlier discussions in Washington, DC. According to him, the talks focused on:
- Counter-terrorism cooperation
- Regional stability in West Africa
- Strengthening the Nigeria–US strategic security partnership
Ribadu expressed optimism that the engagement would enhance trust and deepen collaboration between both countries.
Growing Diplomatic Tensions
The high-level visit occurred amid rising diplomatic tensions following Trump’s redesignation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) over alleged religious freedom violations. The designation sparked public hearings in the US and warnings from House Republicans about rising religious violence in Nigeria.
On November 20, US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth hosted Ribadu at the Pentagon to discuss coordinated approaches to address Nigeria’s security crisis. That same day, the US House Subcommittee on Africa held a public hearing to review the implications of the CPC status.
Last Tuesday, House Republicans issued renewed warnings over the increasing violence, following President Trump’s directive instructing Moore and the Appropriations Committee to investigate what he described as widespread killings of Christians in Nigeria.
As events unfold,
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will continue to monitor and report on the evolving diplomatic and security developments between the United States and Nigeria.