A United States Congressman, Riley Moore, has raised fresh concerns over escalating violence in Nigeria, describing attacks on Christian communities as deeply troubling and calling for urgent collaboration between Washington and Abuja to address the crisis.
Speaking during a television interview, Moore said a recent report he co-presented to the White House followed a directive from former President Donald Trump and House Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole to investigate what he termed widespread persecution in Nigeria.
He noted that his visit to the country exposed him to what he described as “tragedy and horror,” citing violent incidents that have claimed dozens of lives.
The lawmaker referenced reports of an attack during a church service that left about 40 people dead, as well as another incident in which 13 Christians were reportedly killed during a wedding ceremony. He said such occurrences underscore the urgency of coordinated international intervention to strengthen Nigeria’s response to insecurity.
Moore disclosed that the report outlines recommendations for how the Nigerian government can work more closely with the United States to improve security capacity, particularly in confronting extremist groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State, which he said continue to operate with relative freedom in parts of the country.
He further stated that the United States already maintains a limited security presence in Nigeria, including military personnel providing training and support to local forces, as well as surveillance operations. He referenced previous military actions targeting extremist groups, suggesting that stronger and faster measures may be required if the situation does not improve.
While acknowledging efforts by the Nigerian government to address insecurity, Moore expressed concern that progress has been too slow, warning that continued delays could worsen the humanitarian situation.
He stressed that while the United States prefers to work in partnership with Nigeria, it may consider taking a more assertive role if conditions fail to improve.
His remarks are likely to stir debate over Nigeria’s security challenges and the broader implications of foreign involvement in addressing internal conflicts, particularly in a region already grappling with complex ethno-religious tensions.
