KEY POINTS
- US-Nigeria security framework talks near completion.
- Riley Moore leads congressional fact-finding mission.
- US-Nigeria security framework targets extremist violence.
The United States and Nigeria are close to finalising a strategic agreement aimed at tackling terrorism and widening insecurity across parts of the country, according to US Congressman Riley Moore, who recently led a fact-finding visit to Nigeria.
Moore said discussions between both governments had reached an advanced stage following meetings with senior Nigerian officials and local leaders affected by violence in the North-East and Middle Belt regions. He described the proposed arrangement as a structured response to extremist threats and persistent attacks on civilians.
In a post shared on X, Moore said the talks focused on confronting militant groups, including Boko Haram and Islamic State affiliates, while addressing what he described as a sustained campaign of violence against Christian communities.
US and Nigeria advances talks on security framework
Moore led a delegation of US lawmakers to Nigeria, where they held meetings with National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi. The delegation also met religious and traditional leaders in Benue and Plateau states, areas that have suffered repeated attacks.
The congressman said the delegation witnessed the scale of devastation caused by years of violent extremism. He said discussions with Nigerian authorities were constructive and pointed toward an agreement on a US-Nigeria security framework.
“We did have positive conversations with the Nigerian government,” Moore said. “I believe we are close to a strategic security framework to address both ISIS and Boko Haram in the Northeast, as well as the killings in the Middle Belt.”
Moore also met Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia during the visit. He said local leaders shared accounts of displaced communities, destroyed villages and growing fears among residents.
US-Nigeria security framework gains urgency
Moore said testimonies from victims highlighted the urgency of coordinated action. He recounted meeting a woman who watched all five of her children killed during an attack. He also described another woman who lost her husband, two daughters and an unborn child.
“What I witnessed during my trip to Nigeria was heartbreaking,” Moore said.
He said a report from the visit would be presented to President Donald Trump, outlining options for cooperation with Nigeria to curb extremist violence and civilian deaths.
The renewed engagement follows Washington’s decision to redesignate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern over religious freedom violations. That move prompted diplomatic talks, including a visit to the US by a Nigerian delegation led by Ribadu.
Acccording to Vanguard, Nigeria’s government has since announced additional steps, including declaring a state of emergency on insecurity, forming a US-Nigeria Joint Working Group on Security and appointing General Christopher Musa as Minister of Defence.
Officials say the measures reflect efforts to restore stability and reassure international partners amid persistent security challenges.
