-
US, Nigeria Close to Security Framework to Tackle Terrorism
-
Congressman Moore says talks target terrorism and killings in key regions.
-
Nigeria has intensified diplomatic and security efforts following US pressure.
The United States and Nigerian governments are close to finalising a strategic security framework aimed at combating terrorism and addressing persistent violence in parts of the country, according to United States Congressman Riley Moore.
EDITOR’S PICKS
- Trump Says Zelenskyy Stalling U.S. Peace Plan
- Oluremi Tinubu Predicts Nigeria’s Rise to Prosperity
- Why Nigeria’s Military Helped Foil Coup Attempt in Benin Republic
EKO HOT BLOG reports that Moore disclosed this in a post on X on Sunday, saying the proposed framework focuses on countering extremist groups in the North East and Middle Belt regions, with specific attention on what he described as killings of Christians.
The congressman recently led a United States delegation on a fact finding visit to Nigeria, where members assessed the impact of violent extremism in Benue and Plateau states. The delegation held meetings with key Nigerian officials, including the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia, as well as religious and traditional leaders.
Moore said discussions with Nigerian authorities were encouraging and signalled progress toward a joint approach to security challenges.
He said, “We did have positive conversations with the Nigerian government, and I believe we are close to a strategic security framework to address both the ISIS and Boko Haram threat in the Northeast, as well as the genocide against Christians by the radical Fulani Muslims in the Middle Belt.”
According to him, a detailed report from the mission will be submitted to President Donald Trump, outlining possible areas of cooperation with Nigeria to end the attacks.
Moore described encounters with victims during the visit as distressing.
He said, “What I witnessed during my trip to Nigeria was heartbreaking. I met a woman who witnessed all five of her children murdered in front of her. Another woman lost her husband and two daughters and had her unborn child killed.”
The proposed framework follows Nigeria’s earlier redesignation by the United States as a Country of Particular Concern over religious killings. This prompted renewed diplomatic engagement, including a visit to Washington by a Nigerian delegation led by Ribadu to present the country’s security position.
Since then, the Federal Government has announced several measures to address insecurity, including intensified security coordination and deeper engagement with international partners.
