U.S. Congressman Riley Moore has given an upbeat assessment of his recent fact-finding mission to Nigeria, expressing confidence that both nations are edging closer to a more coordinated and effective security partnership.
In a statement reflecting on the visit, Moore said he held a “productive and positive conversation” with Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, during which they discussed actionable steps to confront terrorism and rising violence across parts of the country.
“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 — a specific concern for President Trump and myself — particularly in the Middle Belt,” he said.
The U.S. lawmaker also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian government for the rescue of 100 abducted Catholic schoolchildren, describing the operation as evidence of improved responsiveness under the current security emergency declared by the President.
“I want to thank the Nigerian government and President Tinubu for rescuing the 100 innocent and precious Catholic school children. 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,” Moore stated.
According to him, the concerns raised by the U.S. delegation were received with seriousness and urgency, noting that the newly established Nigeria–U.S. joint task force represents a strong step toward enhanced security cooperation.
“I feel that a cooperative security framework is within sight. The now established joint task force between Nigeria and the U.S. is a great example,” he said.
Moore stressed that while the Nigerian government has shown openness and willingness to work with the United States, the next crucial step is translating commitments into measurable action.
“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 noted.
The Congressman, however, expressed optimism about the direction of ongoing engagements.
“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,” he added.
Moore ended his statement with a message of solidarity:
“Peace be with you all. God bless the great people of Nigeria.”
