A hearing by the United States House of Representatives Sub-committee on Tuesday focused on Nigeria’s urgent need to curb violence and protect Christians from targeted attacks.
The session also highlighted the importance of combating genocide worldwide.
During the proceedings, U.S. Congressman Riley Moore met with a senior Nigerian delegation, including National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu and top intelligence and security officials.
Lawmakers Stress Protection of Religious Freedom
Rep. Smith, chairing the hearing, underscored that religious liberty must be upheld and citizens safeguarded.
“Nigerian authorities must hold accountable those responsible for killing Christians and conducting kidnappings,” he said.
U.S. State Department officials, Jacob McGee and Jonathan Pratt, noted that thousands of Christians have been killed in Nigeria over the past two years, urging the government to secure both lives and property.
They also reiterated President Donald Trump’s interest in addressing attacks on Christians, pointing out that in 12 states where Sharia law is applied, citizens of other faiths may face unequal treatment.
Pratt said, “All Nigerians, regardless of where they live, deserve protection for their lives and property.”
Rep. Jacob highlighted Nigeria’s severe security challenges, citing recent attacks in Kebbi State that claimed over 200 lives and destroyed property as evidence of the need for urgent intervention.
Oge Onubogu, Director and Senior Fellow of the Africa Programme, added that insecurity in Nigeria is multifaceted and cannot be reduced to just genocidal violence.
Bishop Wilfred Anagbe, who previously appeared before Congress, said:
“Nigeria has become one of the deadliest countries for Christians. Fulani militants and Boko Haram are attacking communities with impunity. More Christians die in Nigeria than in the rest of the world combined, yet perpetrators are rarely held accountable. Violence is displacing millions, destroying farmland, and creating a worsening humanitarian crisis. Immediate action is essential to prevent the potential eradication of Christianity in the North and Middle Belt regions.”
U.S. Congressman Meets Nigerian Officials on Security
The Washington meeting, shared by Congressman Moore on X, centered on escalating violence against Christians and terrorism across Nigeria.
Riley described the discussions as “frank, open, and productive,” focusing on counterterrorism, security aid, and safeguarding vulnerable populations.
The Nigerian delegation included senior officials such as “Mrs. Bianca Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs; Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, Inspector General of Police; Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, Attorney General of the Federation; General Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Defence Staff; and Lt. Gen. E. Undiendeye, Chief of Defence Intelligence, among others.”
Moore stressed the U.S. expects tangible action to protect Christians:
“We made it clear that the United States expects measurable steps to prevent violence, persecution, and displacement against Christians. We are ready to collaborate with Nigeria to combat Boko Haram, ISWAP, and Fulani militants, particularly in the North East and Middle Belt regions.”
He warned that religious violence cannot continue unchecked and encouraged Nigerian authorities to take advantage of U.S. support:
“This is a critical opportunity for Nigeria to strengthen its partnership with the United States. President Trump and Congress are committed to ending attacks on Christians and dismantling terrorist networks. Cooperation and coordination are vital to resolve this crisis.”
During the meeting, Nigerian officials outlined challenges in civilian protection, counterterrorism, and international coordination. Moore confirmed that the U.S. would monitor progress and expects Nigeria to accept aid in addressing the ongoing violence and humanitarian crisis.
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