Much Work Needed To Tackle Nigeria’s Insecurity, Says U.S. Congressman

United States Congressman Riley Moore has said that while progress is being made, much work still remains to address Nigeria’s security challenges.

Moore made the remarks following a meeting with Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, on terrorism in the North-East and the ongoing killings in the Middle Belt.

In a statement on X on Monday, Moore said the issues were of particular concern to both him and President Donald Trump.

“There were concrete steps and actions discussed at length that, if fully executed, I believe will enhance security across the country for all Nigerians, disrupt and destroy terrorist organizations in the northeast, and stop the killing of Christians, particularly in the Middle Belt,” Moore said.

The congressman also praised the Nigerian government and President Bola Tinubu for the recent rescue of 100 abducted Catholic schoolchildren.

“This is a positive demonstration of the government’s increasing response to the security situation and shows commitment to the emergency declaration laid out by President Tinubu,” he added.

Moore noted that U.S. concerns were “positively received” and pointed to the establishment of a joint task force between Nigeria and the U.S. as a concrete example of ongoing cooperation.

“It is clear that there is an openness and willingness on the part of the Nigerian government to work with the United States to tackle these critical issues. Now, that openness has to translate to concrete action,” he emphasized.

“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. Peace be with you all. God bless the great people of Nigeria,” he said.

The U.S. congressional delegation visit comes amid diplomatic tensions following Trump’s redesignation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern over alleged religious freedom violations.

The Federal Government has repeatedly rejected claims of Christian persecution, noting that insecurity affects all citizens regardless of religion.

Ribadu confirmed the delegation’s visit on X, noting that discussions also focused on counter-terrorism cooperation, regional stability, and strengthening the strategic security partnership between Nigeria and the U.S.

He said the engagement “reflected the importance both nations attach to this collaboration” and expressed optimism that it would deepen trust and shared commitment to peace and security.