A visiting United States congressional delegation has held talks with Catholic bishops and traditional leaders in Benue State as part of its ongoing fact-finding mission on killings in parts of Nigeria.
The team, led by US congressman Riley Moore, met on Monday with Bishop Wilfred Anagbe, Bishop Isaac Dugu, and the Tor Tiv, His Royal Highness James Ioruza. Moore, who disclosed the visit on his X handle, said the discussions centred on violent attacks in the state and concerns raised by local Christian leaders.
He expressed solidarity with communities affected by the crisis, saying the US “has heard their concerns” and is working with Nigerian authorities on possible security responses.
The delegation’s visit follows earlier high-level engagements in Abuja, including a meeting with Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
Moore described the talks with the NSA as productive, noting that both sides reviewed security challenges in the North-East and Middle Belt.
He said several proposals were discussed, which he believes could help disrupt terrorist networks and curb killings if implemented fully.
The congressman also commended the recent rescue of 100 abducted Catholic schoolchildren, describing it as a sign of the Federal Government’s strengthened response to insecurity.
Ribadu, in a statement on Sunday, confirmed hosting the US delegation, saying the dialogue focused on counter-terrorism cooperation, regional stability and strengthening the security partnership between both countries. The US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, was also present.
The visit comes at a sensitive diplomatic moment, following the decision by the US government under President Donald Trump to redesignate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern over alleged religious freedom violations, a move Nigeria rejects, insisting that insecurity affects all citizens regardless of faith.
Lawmakers in Washington are currently reviewing the implications of that designation, alongside broader concerns about escalating violence in parts of the country.
Both sides say discussions will continue as they explore areas of cooperation to improve security nationwide.