U.S. Congressional delegation engages Nigerian clerics, monarchs, and officials on Christian-targeted violence, security, and counterterrorism efforts.
U.S. congressional delegation visited Benue State, Nigeria, on Monday December 8, 2025, to engage Catholic bishops, local leaders, and the Tiv traditional ruler amid rising reports of violence against Christians in the region.
U.S. Congressman Riley Moore, part of the delegation, described the meetings as “deeply moving” and expressed strong support for local leaders. “It was an honor to meet Bishop Wilfred Anagbe, Bishop Isaac Dugu, and His Royal Highness James Ioruza to discuss the ongoing campaign targeting Christians in Benue State,” Moore said in a post on social media platform X.
The delegation’s visit follows earlier discussions in Washington, D.C., on shared security priorities. Moore and other U.S. officials met Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, and U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, to explore coordinated strategies to tackle terrorism and religious violence, particularly in the Middle Belt and northeastern regions.
“Concrete steps and actions were discussed that, if fully executed, could enhance security, disrupt terrorist groups, and stop the killing of Christians—a specific concern for President Trump and myself,” Moore said. He also highlighted the rescue of 100 abducted Catholic schoolchildren, praising the Nigerian government and President Bola Tinubu for the operation.
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The visit coincides with heightened diplomatic tensions. President Trump recently re-designated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern over alleged violations of religious freedom, sparking debates over potential U.S. responses, including military involvement. The U.S. House Subcommittee on Africa has also opened hearings to assess the implications of the designation.
Ribadu emphasized the constructive nature of the talks. “The engagement reflected the importance both nations attach to counter-terrorism cooperation, regional stability, and strengthening the strategic security partnership between Nigeria and the United States,” he said.
While the Federal Government of Nigeria maintains that insecurity affects all citizens regardless of religion, Moore stressed that U.S. concerns were “positively received” and called for these commitments to translate into tangible action on the ground.
The delegation’s mission is part of an ongoing fact-finding effort ordered by President Trump, aimed at assessing the scale of religiously motivated violence and improving collaboration between U.S. and Nigerian authorities. Moore concluded his visit noting progress but emphasizing that “much work still needs to be done” to ensure safety and stability across the country.