United States Congressman Riley M. Moore has cautioned a high-level Nigerian delegation that President Donald Trump “does not make idle threats,” particularly regarding violence against Christians and religious persecution in Nigeria.
Gatekeepers News reports that Moore issued the warning after a meeting with top Nigerian officials, including National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu; Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Bianca Ojukwu; Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun; Attorney General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi; Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede; Chief of Defence Intelligence Lt. Gen. E.A.P. Undiendeye; and Special Adviser to ONSA, Idayat Hassan, among others.
The meeting focused on the continuing persecution of Christians, persistent terrorist threats, and broader security challenges across Nigeria. Nigerian officials outlined their concerns regarding counterterrorism efforts, security assistance, protection of vulnerable communities, and ongoing violent conflicts across different regions.
Congressman Moore stressed that the United States is prepared to deepen coordination with Nigeria, adding that President Trump has been “abundantly clear” that Washington will not tolerate ongoing violence against Christians or any form of religious persecution.
Moore reaffirmed his commitment to closely track developments and encourage Nigerian authorities to embrace U.S. cooperation aimed at ending attacks on Christians and tackling terrorist networks.
He said:
“Today, I had a frank, honest, and productive discussion with senior members of the Nigerian government regarding the horrific violence and persecution Christians face and the ongoing threat terrorism poses across Nigeria. 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 Saviour Jesus Christ.”
He continued:
“We stand ready to work cooperatively with the Nigerians to help their nation combat the terrorism perpetrated by Boko Haram, ISWAP, and Fulani militants against their population, specifically Christians in the Northeast and Middle Belt regions of Nigeria. The Nigerian government has the chance to strengthen and deepen its relationship with the United States. President Trump and Congress are united and serious in our resolve to end the violence against Christians and disrupt and destroy terrorist groups within Nigeria. I urge the Nigerians to work with us in cooperation and coordination on this critical issue.”
The meeting took place just days after President Trump designated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern over religious freedom issues.
