In a significant diplomatic engagement, Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia of Benue State hosted a delegation of United States Congress members on Saturday, December 7, 2025. The American lawmakers were in the North-Central Nigerian state to conduct a first-hand assessment of the protracted security and humanitarian situation.
Focus on Security and Humanitarian Challenges
The governor disclosed that the discussions with the US officials centered on the pressing issues facing Benue and the wider region. "Our discussions focused on the security and humanitarian challenges in Benue and the North Central region, and the urgent need for sustainable peace, justice, and security for our people," Alia stated. The visit, which the governor announced via a social media post, quickly sparked a wave of reactions from Nigerians online, highlighting the sensitivity of foreign intervention in the country's internal affairs.
Background: Trump's Allegations and Policy Influence
This high-profile visit occurs against the backdrop of severe allegations made by US President Donald Trump. Trump has accused the Nigerian government of allowing a "Christian genocide" and has threatened to launch a military operation in the West African nation under the guise of defending Christians. This declaration has been widely condemned within Nigeria.
A revealing development shows that Trump's stance was reportedly influenced by pressure from pro-Biafra advocacy groups in the diaspora. A document from the United States Department of Justice indicated that campaigns by coalitions like the United States of Biafra—comprising the Biafra De Facto Government in the Homeland and the Biafra Republic Government in Exile—impacted US policymakers. These groups, which are required to register under the Foreign Agents Registration Act due to their influence on US policy, were linked to Trump's decision to designate Nigeria as a "Country of Particular Concern."
Mixed Reactions from Nigerians
The visit of the US Congress members to Benue has elicited diverse and passionate responses from the Nigerian public, reflecting deep-seated concerns about governance and representation.
Young Joseph commented, expressing skepticism about the governor's narrative: "I hope you were able to tell them the truth since you have been lying consistently to be politically correct for re-elections... We, Benue sons and daughters, shall continue to tell the world what is happening."
In contrast, LyfJennings praised the move: "This fact-finding mission is commendable. Not propagandists sitting thousands of miles away to push 'Christian genocide' in Nigeria. Kudos, HE Fr. Alia."
Other reactions questioned the depth of the engagement. Gondo Andy asked, "Did you take them to the IDP camps scattered across the State to see things for themselves?" Similarly, Obanla Femi Ayinuola questioned whether the governor, who is also a Reverend Father, spoke the truth or "lied as a politician just to sound politically correct."
Analyst Advises Tinubu on Response Strategy
In related developments, political commentator Olajumoke Shaqiru Victor has advised President Bola Tinubu on steps to address Trump's allegations. While speaking in an interview, the analyst outlined specific actions the Nigerian government should take to robustly counter the claims and manage the escalating diplomatic tension. The advice underscores the need for a strategic and informed response from Abuja to safeguard national sovereignty and present an accurate picture of the nation's complex security landscape.
The hosting of US lawmakers by Governor Alia marks a critical moment in Nigeria-US relations, directly intersecting with international perceptions, domestic security policies, and the powerful role of diaspora advocacy in shaping foreign policy.
