US Congressional Delegation meets Ribadu on counter-terrorism and genocide allegations

National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, held a meeting in Abuja with a visiting U.S. Congressional Delegation, focusing on strengthening counter-terrorism cooperation and addressing the claims of genocide against Christians in the country.
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‎The meeting, which included U.S. Ambassador Richard Mills and Congressmen Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart, Rep. Normal Toress, Rep. Scott Franklin, and Rep. Juan Ciscomani, was aimed towards fact-finding the claims of genocide against Christians and to support the counter-terrorism efforts to help flush out the menace.
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‎The visit follows security talks that were held last month in Washington D.C., where Ribadu has been charged to lead the Nigerian delegation, after Trump’s military intervention statement.
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‎The discussion was aimed towards fostering security partnerships with Western countries to combat rising banditry and terrorism in the North.
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‎The NSA expressed optimism that the engagement would deepen trust, collaboration, and commitment to peace and security.
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‎A reason for the Congressional visit was to determine the veracity of their claim that there is genocide against Christians in the country. The Nigerian government has consistently denied these allegations, arguing they misrepresent a complex security situation where armed groups target both Muslim and Christian communities.
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‎Separately, U.S. Congressman Riley, a prominent voice in the anti-Nigeria agitation over the alleged genocide, conducted an independent visit to Benue State, that has experienced numerous attacks, including the recent attack in Yelwata. Riley stated that his visit was very productive and aimed at gathering first-hand information.
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‎Meanwhile, the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF), led by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, pledged full cooperation with the Federal Government against violence. He confidently declared that Nigeria will win the war against terrorism and banditry.
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‎He praised security architecture of the president including enhanced intelligence gathering and improved inter-agency collaboration, for putting insurgents and terror networks on the defensive.
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