Key Points

• U.S. lawmakers demand Nigeria protect Christians and prosecute killers.

• Riley Moore meets Nigerian security officials on counterterrorism.

• Officials discuss security gaps; U.S. urges immediate action.

The U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee held a hearing Wednesday on the ongoing insecurity and alleged Christian genocide in Nigeria.

The session examined how Nigeria can strengthen protections for its citizens and prevent religiously motivated violence.

Rep. Smith, chairman of the subcommittee, said the Nigerian government must uphold religious freedom and ensure justice for Christians targeted by armed groups.

“Nigeria must prosecute bandits who are killing Christians and responsible for kidnappings,” he said.

U.S. State Department officials Jacob McGee and Jonathan Pratt urged Nigeria to safeguard lives and properties across the country.

They cited statistics showing thousands of Christians have been killed in the past two years. Pratt noted that residents in states under Sharia law may face unequal treatment.

“Lives and properties of Nigerian citizens should be secured regardless of where they live,” Pratt said. McGee added, “Nigeria is facing serious challenges in protecting citizens, which calls for immediate security intervention.”

Impact of Violence on Christian Communities

Oge Onubogu, director and senior fellow of the Africa Programme, said the government must address killings across Nigeria while acknowledging broader insecurity issues.

Bishop Wilfred Anagbe, who previously testified before Congress, described Nigeria as “the deadliest place on earth to be a Christian.”

He cited attacks by Boko Haram and Fulani militants that have displaced millions, destroyed farmland, and created a worsening humanitarian crisis.

“Without urgent intervention, Christianity risks being wiped out in Northern and Middle Belt Nigeria,” Anagbe said.

He urged decisive action, noting that Nigeria is already designated a Country of Particular Concern.

U.S. Lawmaker Meets Nigerian Security Officials

Congressman Riley Moore met with a Nigerian delegation in Washington to discuss Christian persecution and terrorism.

The delegation included National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, and other top security officials.

Riley described the meeting as “frank, honest, and productive.” He emphasized that the U.S. expects Nigeria to take tangible steps to protect Christians from violence, persecution, displacement, and death.

He pledged U.S. support for counterterrorism efforts against Boko Haram, ISWAP, and Fulani militants, focusing on the North East and Middle Belt.

“The Nigerian government has the chance to strengthen ties with the United States. President Trump and Congress are committed to ending violence against Christians and dismantling terrorist networks,” Riley said.

Nigerian officials shared challenges in securing civilians, coordinating counterterrorism operations, and working with international partners.

Riley said the U.S. would monitor progress and expects Nigeria to accept cooperation and support.

Calls for Urgent Action

The congressional hearing and meetings underscored the urgency of addressing religious violence in Nigeria.

U.S. lawmakers and Nigerian leaders discussed strategies for improving security, protecting vulnerable communities, and holding perpetrators accountable.

Bishop Anagbe and other witnesses stressed that failing to act could deepen the humanitarian crisis and further threaten Christian communities in affected regions.