In a significant diplomatic engagement, Congressman Riley Moore has extended a direct offer of cooperation to the Nigerian government, declaring “We are ready to work with you” to address the twin challenges of religious persecution and terrorism threatening Africa’s most populous nation.
The declaration came during a high level meeting with a Nigerian delegation led by National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu. The talks, described by both sides as “frank, honest, and productive,” focused on the escalating violence against Christian communities and the persistent threat posed by terrorist groups including Boko Haram, ISWAP, and Fulani militants.
Congressman Moore emphasised the United States’ firm stance, stating that President Trump’s warnings about religious persecution “are not idle threats.” He made clear that continued violence against Christians would not be tolerated, but paired this firmness with a concrete offer of partnership.
“I made it crystal clear that the United States must see tangible steps to ensure that Christians are not subject to violence, persecution, displacement, and death simply for believing in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christm We stand ready to work cooperatively with the Nigerians to help their nation combat the terrorism”, Moore said in a statement following the meeting.
The Nigerian delegation, which included senior figures like Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun and Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede, briefed their American counterparts on their counterterrorism challenges and efforts to protect vulnerable communities.
The meeting represents a crucial opportunity to repair and strengthen the US-Nigeria relationship, which has been strained by President Trump’s recent designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” and his threats of potential military action.
Moore framed the US position as one of firm solidarity with victims but open-handed cooperation with the Nigerian government.
“The Nigerian government has the chance to strengthen and deepen its relationship with the United States,” Moore noted, urging Nigerian officials to accept what he termed the “open hand of cooperation” to stop the bloodshed and destroy terrorist networks operating within their borders.
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