A delegation from the United States Congress has held a strategic meeting with Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, in Abuja amid heightened diplomatic activity triggered by renewed allegations of a Christian genocide in Nigeria.
Ribadu, who disclosed the meeting on his X handle on Sunday, said the US lawmakers were in the country on a fact-finding mission. He noted that the visit builds on earlier engagements in Washington, DC, where both sides discussed mutual security priorities.
According to the NSA, the US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, was also present at the meeting — an indication of the importance both countries place on the ongoing dialogue.
Ribadu stated that discussions centred on strengthening counter-terrorism cooperation, improving regional stability, and deepening the broader security partnership between Nigeria and the United States. He expressed optimism that the talks would further enhance trust, collaboration, and the shared pursuit of peace and security.
The visit comes at a sensitive time for Nigeria–US relations, following US President Donald Trump’s decision to redesignate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) over alleged religious freedom violations — accusations critics say amount to claims of a Christian genocide.
The designation has heightened diplomatic tensions, with some voices in Washington hinting at possible punitive actions, including military intervention. The Federal Government, however, maintains that there is no targeted persecution of Christians, stressing that insecurity affects citizens across religious lines.
Nigeria has since intensified diplomatic outreach to counter the allegations and rally support from global partners. Earlier this week, Ribadu also met with US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth at the Pentagon to discuss coordinated strategies for addressing Nigeria’s escalating insecurity challenges.
