Congressman Riley M. Moore, who is part of the high-level United States (U.S.) delegation in Nigeria on fact-finding visit over alleged Christian genocide in the country has given insight into the meetings with top Nigerian officials and religious and traditional leaders.
Congressman Moore, alongside Congressmen and women Mario Díaz-Balart, Norma Torres, Scott Franklin and Juan Ciscomani, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State, and U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, visited National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu and Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State.
The U.S. delegation also met with the Catholic Diocese of Makurdi, Most Reverend Wilfred Anagbe, Most Reverend Isaac Dugu of Katsina-ala Diocese and the Tor Tiv, HRM James Iorzua Ayatse.
Giving insight into the discussions with Ribadu, Congressman Moore said in an X post: “I want to thank National Security Advisor @NuhuRibadu for a productive and positive conversation with the US Congressional delegation to Nigeria.
“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 @POTUS and myself) – particularly in the Middle Belt of the country.
“I want to thank the Nigerian government and @officialABAT 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. The US’ sense of urgency on our concerns was positively received.
“I feel that a cooperative security framework is within sight. The now established joint task force between Nigeria and the US is a great example.
“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. There is much work still to be done, but things are moving in the right direction.
“I look forward to the next steps with Nigerian government and the continued open dialogue. Peace be with you all. God bless the great people of Nigeria.”
On the meeting with Bishops Anagbe and Dugu and the Tor Tiv, More also said: “It was an honor and deeply moving to meet with his excellency Bishop Wilfred Anagbe, Bishop Isaac Dugu, and his Royal Highness James Ioruza, traditional ruler of the Tiv people, to discuss the ongoing genocidal campaign by the Fulani in Benue State.
“Our brothers and sisters in Christ will no longer suffer in silence.
“The United States has heard your cries and we are working diligently toward solutions.”
