High-Level Meeting in Washington Addresses Security Concerns
United States Congressman Riley Moore delivered a stark warning to Nigeria's top security officials during a high-level meeting in Washington DC, stating that President Donald Trump "does not make idle threats" regarding allegations of Christian persecution in Nigeria.
The meeting occurred on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, between Moore and a 10-member Nigerian delegation led by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu. The delegation included prominent officials such as Bianca Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs; Kayode Egbetokun, Inspector General of Police; Lateef Fagbemi, Attorney General of the Federation; and Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Defence Staff.
Trump's 'Guns-A-Blazing' Remark Taken Seriously
Moore specifically referenced Trump's previous controversial statement about going into Nigeria "guns-a-blazing" and emphasized that the former president means exactly what he says. The congressman, known for his vocal advocacy on religious freedom issues, recently introduced a congressional resolution condemning what he describes as "ongoing persecution of Christians" in Nigeria.
In a post on his X account following the meeting, Moore stated: "President Trump made abundantly clear that the United States will not tolerate continued violence against Christians or other forms of religious persecution."
Nigeria's Response and US Assistance Offer
Despite the strong warnings, Moore described the discussions as "frank, honest, and productive" with conversations focusing on terrorism, security assistance, and protection of vulnerable communities across Nigeria.
The United States expressed readiness to assist Nigeria in its counterinsurgency campaign, but emphasized that the Nigerian government must ensure adequate protection for all communities facing security challenges.
Nigerian officials used the opportunity to outline existing challenges around counterterrorism and the complex nature of violence affecting various regions of the country. The Nigerian government has consistently rejected claims of targeted Christian persecution, maintaining that insecurity affects citizens across religious and ethnic lines without discrimination.
Moore acknowledged that the United States is prepared to deepen cooperation to help address what he termed "ongoing bloodshed" in Nigeria, while reiterating that Trump's warnings about religious persecution should be taken with utmost seriousness by Nigerian authorities.
