A member of the United States House of Representatives, Riley Moore, has reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with the Nigerian government to address insecurity and the persecution of Christians, particularly in the Middle Belt region of the country.
Moore gave the assurance following a meeting with Plateau State Governor, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, during which both leaders discussed ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation between Nigeria and the United States.
In a statement shared on his official platform, the U.S. lawmaker described the meeting as productive and forward-looking.
“It was an honour to meet with the Governor of Plateau State in Nigeria, Caleb Mutfwang, yesterday,” Moore said, adding that the discussion focused on deepening ties between both countries.
According to him, the engagement centred on strengthening diplomatic, security, and economic relations.
“We had a meaningful and productive conversation about deepening the ties between our two countries,” Moore stated.
The congressman also stressed the United States’ readiness to support Nigeria in tackling pressing security challenges, with particular attention to the plight of Christians and other vulnerable communities in the Middle Belt.
“I remain committed to working with the Nigerian government in coordination and cooperation to address these security and economic challenges, especially the persecution our Christian brothers and sisters face,” he said.
Moore further commended Governor Mutfwang for his efforts in protecting citizens and promoting religious freedom in Plateau State.
“God bless you, Governor, for what you do to protect Christians and other vulnerable populations in the Middle Belt,” he added.
The meeting came shortly after the inauguration of the U.S.–Nigeria Joint Working Group, which the Federal Government has described as a critical opportunity to curb violent terrorism and end the persecution of Christians in Nigeria.
The inaugural session of the Working Group was held in Abuja, with the Federal Government delegation led by the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu. Discussions at the meeting focused on tackling insecurity, strengthening bilateral cooperation, and promoting religious freedom.
According to the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, the Working Group was established to deepen collaboration between Nigeria and the United States, reduce violence against vulnerable communities, enhance accountability for attacks, and improve civilian protection.
The renewed engagement follows Nigeria’s recent designation as a Country of Particular Concern by U.S. President Donald Trump, highlighting the urgency of addressing security and human rights challenges.
Meanwhile, Governor Mutfwang has arrived in the United States on a strategic visit aimed at promoting economic development, bilateral trade, and investment opportunities for Plateau State.
The visit forms part of the state’s efforts to deepen sub-national international engagement and aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
During the visit, the governor is scheduled to hold meetings with key U.S. institutions, including the United States Development Finance Corporation (DFC), the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM), officials of the U.S. State Department, and other policy and investment stakeholders.
Governor Mutfwang also met with Congressman Moore to further discuss areas of cooperation, including investment, security, democratic governance, and economic collaboration.
At the meeting, the governor highlighted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, noting its focus on improving the welfare, security, and prosperity of Nigerians. He also outlined progress made in the fight against insurgency and efforts to strengthen national security.
Moore welcomed the governor’s visit and expressed interest in expanding U.S.–Nigeria relations through mutually beneficial partnerships in investment and development.
