A United States lawmaker, Riley Moore, has warned that any attempt to destabilise Nigeria would embolden terrorist groups and further expose Christian communities and other vulnerable populations to danger.
Moore made the remarks after a fact-finding visit to Nigeria in December, where he assessed reports of violence and insecurity affecting parts of the country.
The visit followed increased global attention on Nigeria’s security situation after US President Donald Trump suggested the possibility of military intervention.
During his trip, the congressman met with Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and held discussions with Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State, as well as religious and traditional leaders.
He also visited internally displaced persons and engaged humanitarian organisations to better understand the impact of ongoing violence.
Speaking on his X handle, Moore stated that discussions during his visit did not support calls for dividing the country, stressing that such moves could worsen the security crisis.
“In my discussions, the idea of dividing the country has not come up in any serious way. Efforts to embolden separatists hurt Christians in Nigeria—especially in the North and Middle Belt,” he wrote.
He further warned, “A destabilised Nigeria would embolden terrorists and make Christians less safe in Nigeria and across the continent.”
The congressman reaffirmed his commitment to advocating the protection of Christians and other Nigerians affected by terrorism.
“I remain committed to working to save the lives of our brothers and sisters in Christ—and, for that matter, all Nigerians—suffering from the instability wrought by terrorists throughout Nigeria,” he said.
Moore also revealed that the United States and Nigeria had entered into a security cooperation agreement aimed at tackling violence and strengthening bilateral relations between both countries.
